Preventing Three Common Residential Winter Water Damage Challenges

Warding Off Winter Water Damage

Winter introduces serious risks for residential water damage. As temperatures drop, frozen water expands, increasing the potential for leaks, burst pipes, and structural damage. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to costly water restoration services.

Understanding the most common winter water damage threats and taking proactive steps can help protect your home. Here are three key risks homeowners face—and how to prevent them.

Cold and Frozen Water Pose Unique Threats

Winter weather water damage scenarios occur as water freezes. Freezing expands water volume by up to 9 percent, according to the International Association for the Properties of Water and Steam (IAPWS). Frozen water, including various combinations of snow, ice, and sleet, "grows" and fills up cracks, crevices, and contained spaces. It builds up and exerts pressure, gradually breaking apart plumbing and becoming heavier with each layer.

Winter water damage can sneak up on homeowners, remaining unseen in plain sight until the weather warms and the flooding begins inside and outside your home. The following trio of winter water challenges illustrate the issues and are typical of the looming devastation cold and frozen weather can wreak. Review and strongly consider the practical prevention tips suggested by AdvantaClean as solutions to avoid winter water damage.

Frozen Pipes & Burst Plumbing

How Do Pipes Freeze?

When temperatures plummet, water inside exposed or poorly insulated pipes can freeze and expand by up to 9%, according to the International Association for the Properties of Water and Steam (IAPWS). This pressure can crack pipes, loosen fittings, and create hidden leaks. The problem often goes unnoticed until the ice melts, leading to sudden flooding and water damage inside the home.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
• Keep your thermostat above 55°F, even when away from home.
• Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving, reducing the risk of freezing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.
• Shut off outdoor faucets and drain sprinkler systems before winter arrives.

If a frozen pipe bursts, immediate action is crucial. AdvantaClean’s water damage experts are available 24/7 to help mitigate damage and restore your home.

Winter Roof Damage Risks

Your roof and gutter system take a beating during the winter months. Heavy snow, ice accumulation, and clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which trap melting snow on your roof. As water backs up, it can seep under shingles, leading to roof leaks, water intrusion, and mold growth.

Preventing Roof Leaks & Ice Dams:

• Inspect and maintain your roof before winter to ensure shingles, flashing, and gutters are secure.
• Keep gutters clear of leaves and debris to allow proper drainage.
• Use a roof rake to remove excess snow buildup safely.
• Install heat cables along the roofline to prevent ice dam formation.

A leaking roof can cause significant water damage inside your home. If you notice signs of moisture, AdvantaClean’s team can provide expert water damage restoration and mold remediation to prevent further issues.

Flooding from Melting Snow & Ice

During winter, snow and ice accumulate around your home’s foundation. As temperatures rise, trapped water has nowhere to go, leading to basement flooding and foundation leaks. Spring rains can further worsen the issue by saturating already frozen ground, forcing water into cracks and weak points in your home’s structure.

How to Prevent Winter Flooding:

• Shovel snow away from your home’s foundation to prevent water buildup.
• Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5-10 feet away from your home.
• Check your foundation for cracks and seal any vulnerabilities before winter.
• Install a sump pump to handle excess water and prevent basement flooding.

If melting snow or rainwater floods your home, AdvantaClean offers expert water extraction and structural drying services to prevent lasting damage.

Act Now to Prevent Winter Water Damage

Frozen pipes, roof leaks, and basement flooding are all serious threats during winter. Taking preventative measures can save you thousands in water damage restoration costs. However, if your home experiences winter-related water issues, AdvantaClean is here to help with expert water damage repair, mold remediation, and air duct cleaning services to restore a safe and healthy home environment.