Getting Ready for Spring

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

After the cold frigid winter many look forward to the warmer spring weather, but with that rise in temperature can come considerable water damage to your home or business. Not only does spring showers make the possibility of flooding in your home increase, snow has also been melting causing higher levels of ground water. Follow these tips to help protect your home from water damage during the wet spring season that’s ahead:

1. Clear gutter and drains: Clogged gutters can cause water to spill over the sides and down the walls of your home and end up a messy flood. The water will surround your home and can seep inside through cracks and leaks in the foundation. Take the time to clean the gutters out and clear them of any and all debris before the rainy season begins.
2. Ground water: Melting snow can also pool and seep into your foundation. Be sure to check corners or joints where the wall meets the floor for any seepage.
3. Improperly positioned downspouts: Ensure downspouts are positioned away from your home. If necessary you can use an extender to direct water further away from the foundation.
4. Cover air vents: Another common way water finds its way into a home is through the home's air vents. If you know that heavy or continuous rain is in the forecast, cover your air vents with thick plastic sheeting from both the outside and the inside. 
5. Check sealant surrounding doors and windows: Make sure that any gaps, holes, or cracks in the sealant surrounding the doors and windows are filled in. This is a common reason for mildew to grow on windows/doors and their casings.
6. Ice damming: As heat rises, ice will melt as it warms and refreezes when temperatures drop. With this combination, water can start to build within the eaves troughs and under roof shingles. If it has nowhere else to drain, the water can enter from the roof into your home through the insulation and walls, causing water damage and even mold if not taken care of. Remove any ice or snow from your eaves troughs so water can flow freely. If you wish to remove snow from your roof, do so safely. Alternatively, it is best to hire a professional to safely clear snow and ice. If the extent of ice damming is significant, consider contacting a professional roofer or gutter-cleaning expert.

If the unfortunate event happens and water does find it's way into your home, give SERVPRO of Burlington/Middlebury a call (802-497-1101) as soon as possible. Our certified technicians are available to assist you 24/7.