How Much Damage Can a Winter Storm Do?

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Open closet doors and cupboards open during the winter months to keep pipes warm if they are prone to freezing.

How Much Damage Can a Winter Storm Do?

To those who haven't experienced a severe winter storm, it can be difficult to understand why many northern cities devote so many resources to dealing with winter weather. Snow, after all, can seem relatively harmless or even evoke fond memories of childhood fun. It is extremes in temperature and precipitation, however, that result in severe property damage.

1. Temperature Damage
Water has an unfortunate tendency to expand during the physical process of freezing. Since pipes and other water vessels tend to hold standing water, you should always keep your house at a high enough temperature to ensure that no section of piping is liable to freeze. If you expect temperatures to remain extremely cold for an extended time, run faucets periodically so that your water supply has a chance to regain heat energy. A burst pipe can cause flooding that results in costly damage to your home.

2. Roof Cave-ins
A blizzard that features high winds and snow accumulation may create enough force to cave weak sections of roofing. This can result in additional damage if snow is allowed to accumulate through the breach into your home. Since winter storm cave-ins are likely to expose occupants to unpleasant outdoor conditions, you should have a professional tarp any roof damage as soon as possible.

3. External Problems
Both trees and power lines are notoriously susceptible to collapse in the wake of freezing rain or blizzard conditions. In a worst-case scenario, either can cause roof damage or damage to other exterior surfaces on your home. A power outage can prevent you from heating your home or doing necessary tasks. The best way to deal with collapses is to anticipate them before they happen. 
If your home in Aurora, IL has suffered winter storm damage, contact a restoration expert immediately. If you live in the path of frequent blizzards, you should familiarize yourself with local standards for storm damage prevention so that you can rest easy when winter comes.