Winter Home Maintenance Tips

When the freezing temperatures of winter arrive in Ann Arbor, the two most common risks to your home are ice dams and frozen pipes. Ice dams occur when heavy snow buildup melts during the day, then refreezes as temperatures drop overnight. After several days of this cycle, the melted water and ice work up under your shingles, entering the attic and damaging your ceiling and walls.

Help prevent dams from forming by:

1. Keeping gutters and downspouts clear of debris, snow, and ice so melting roof snow can flow.
2. Keeping snow on your roof to a minimum. Roof rakes let you stand on the ground to safely pull the snow off the roof.
3. Evaluating your attic’s insulation and ventilation. Airflow is essential to a dry attic.

Like ice dams, frozen pipes can also cause extensive home damage. If you think turning the heat down while you’re away or on vacation will save you money, think again. If your water pipes freeze and burst, you will spend thousands in cleanup and repairs.

Take these simple preventive measures to prevent frozen pipes:

1. Locate and insulate pipes susceptible to freezing.
2. Wrap pipes with heat tape and seal all air leaks.
3. Disconnect garden hoses. Shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.
4. Drain and shut off the water supply if you plan to be away for several days.
5. While you are away, have someone check regularly to ensure the heat is still on and things are OK.
6. Make sure you know how to shut off the water to your home.

If you do discover a frozen pipe:

1. Never thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch.
2. If pipes burst, stop the flow of water as soon as possible.
3. Call a professional as soon as possible.

The experts Handyman Connection of Ann Arbor can help you prepare your roof and pipes, preventing disasters from happening. Contact us today to request a free, no-obligation estimate!