Month: January 2024

Winter storms can bring unwelcome surprises, such as water damage to your home. When freezing temperatures, ice, and snow combine, the risk of water damage increases significantly. Whether it’s a burst pipe, roof leak, or ice dam-related issue, knowing how to react promptly and effectively can help minimize damage and prevent further complications. In this blog post, we will guide you through a step-by-step process of what to do when you have water damage during a cold winter storm.

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Before taking any action, prioritize safety for yourself and your family. Winter storms can create hazardous conditions, so follow these safety precautions:

• Turn Off Electricity: If water has come into contact with electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity to the affected area or your entire home if necessary. This will prevent electrical hazards.
• Beware of Slippery Surfaces: Be cautious when navigating wet and icy surfaces. Use non-slip shoes or boots, and keep walkways clear of ice and snow.
• Look for Signs of Structural Damage: Inspect your home for any signs of structural damage, such as sagging ceilings or walls. If you notice any, evacuate the affected area immediately and contact professionals.
• Check for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave the property immediately and contact the gas company or emergency services from a safe location.

Step 2: Stop the Water Source

Identify and stop the source of the water to prevent further damage. The source of water damage during a winter storm could be:

• Burst Pipes: If a pipe has burst, turn off the main water supply to your home. This will stop the flow of water and prevent further flooding.
• Roof Leaks: If you have a roof leak due to ice dams or snow accumulation, attempt to collect the leaking water using buckets or containers. Place them strategically to prevent water from spreading.
• Ice Dams: If ice dams are causing water to seep into your home, consult with professionals to safely remove the ice dams and address the underlying issue.

Step 3: Document the Damage

Documentation is crucial for insurance claims and future repairs. Take the following steps to document the damage:

• Photographs and Videos: Use your smartphone or camera to capture clear, detailed images and videos of the water damage. Include both close-up shots and wider views to provide context.
• Create an Inventory: Make a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their approximate value. This will be helpful when filing insurance claims.
• Retain Receipts: Keep all receipts and records related to expenses incurred in making temporary repairs or replacing damaged items.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process:

• Provide Details: Give your insurance company a thorough description of the damage, including when it occurred and any actions you’ve taken to mitigate it.
• Share Documentation: Send the photographs, videos, inventory of damaged items, and receipts to your insurance company. This will help with the assessment of your claim.
• Follow Instructions: Follow your insurance company’s instructions regarding claim filing, inspections, and any other necessary steps.

Step 5: Mitigate Further Damage

Taking immediate action to prevent further damage is crucial during a winter storm:

• Temporary Repairs: If you have the skills and materials, make temporary repairs to stop leaks, secure windows, or seal openings. This can help prevent additional damage while waiting for professional assistance.
• Frozen Pipes: If pipes are frozen but not burst, use safe methods to thaw them gradually. Do not use open flames or high heat, as this can cause further damage.
• Professional Assistance: For complex or extensive damage, seek the help of professionals. Roofers, plumbers, and water damage restoration experts have the knowledge and equipment to address water damage effectively.

Experiencing water damage during a cold winter storm can be stressful, but acting swiftly and methodically can make a significant difference in mitigating damage and facilitating the recovery process. Prioritize safety, stop the water source, document the damage, contact your insurance company, and take steps to prevent further damage. With the right actions and professional assistance, you can navigate the challenges of water damage during a winter storm and work towards restoring your home to its pre-damage condition.

Winter deep freezes bring with them a unique set of challenges for homeowners, one of the most troublesome being water damage. When temperatures plummet, pipes freeze, ice dams form on roofs, and the risk of leaks and floods increases significantly. Dealing with water damage during such harsh conditions can be daunting, but it’s essential to act swiftly to mitigate the damage. In this blog post, we’ll explore the common causes of water damage during a winter deep freeze and discuss the benefits of calling a professional restoration company for assistance.

Common Causes of Water Damage During a Winter Deep Freeze

• Freezing Water: The primary cause of pipe bursts during freezes is the freezing of water inside the pipes. When water freezes, it expands, putting tremendous pressure on the walls of the pipe. If this pressure becomes too great, it can cause the pipe to rupture or burst.
• Inadequate Insulation: Poor insulation or lack of insulation around pipes can make them more vulnerable to freezing. Pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls are particularly at risk if not properly insulated.
• Exposure to Cold Air: Pipes that are exposed to extremely cold outdoor air temperatures are more likely to freeze. This includes pipes running along exterior walls or those in areas with minimal insulation.
• Lack of Heat: Inadequate heating in your home, especially in areas where pipes are located, can lead to freezing. This can happen if you set your thermostat too low during extremely cold weather or if heating systems fail.
• Drafts: Drafts or air leaks in your home can cause cold air to circulate around pipes, lowering their temperature and increasing the risk of freezing.
• Clogged Pipes: Pipes that are partially or completely clogged with debris, mineral deposits, or ice themselves are more susceptible to freezing. Reduced water flow increases the likelihood of freezing.
• Exterior Water Sources: Outdoor faucets or pipes connected to hoses can freeze and burst if they are not properly winterized or if water is not shut off and drained before freezing temperatures arrive.
• Rapid Temperature Drops: Sudden and significant drops in temperature can catch homeowners off guard, causing pipes to freeze and burst before they have a chance to take preventive measures.
• Pipe Material: Certain types of pipes are more prone to bursting in freezing conditions. For example, older metal pipes, especially those made of iron or galvanized steel, are more susceptible to freezing and bursting than newer plastic or PEX pipes.
• No Flow or Low Flow: Pipes that have little to no water flow are more likely to freeze because moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water. This can happen in rarely used plumbing lines or during periods of low water usage.
• Thawing and Refreezing: When pipes freeze and then thaw, followed by refreezing, the repeated expansion and contraction of the ice can weaken the pipe walls, making them more prone to bursting.
• Improper Installation: Pipes that are not installed correctly, especially with insufficient slope for drainage, can trap water, making them more likely to freeze and burst.

Steps to Take When Dealing with Water Damage in Winter

While calling a professional restoration company is essential for proper cleanup and restoration, there are some initial steps you can take when dealing with water damage during a winter deep freeze:

1. Safety First: Ensure that it’s safe to enter the affected area. If there’s a risk of electrical hazards, structural damage, or slipping on wet surfaces, do not enter.
2. Turn Off the Water: If you can safely access the main water supply valve, shut it off to stop the flow of water and prevent further damage.
3. Turn Off Electricity: If water has come into contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, turn off the electricity to the affected area to prevent electrical hazards.
4. Document the Damage: Take photographs or videos of the water-damaged areas before any cleanup or restoration efforts begin. This documentation will be valuable for insurance claims.
5. Remove Excess Water: Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much standing water as possible.
6. Open Windows and Doors: If weather conditions permit, open windows and doors to help with ventilation and drying.
7. Contact a Professional: Once you’ve taken these initial steps, contact a professional restoration company to assess the damage and begin the restoration process.

Dealing with water damage in your home during a winter deep freeze can be a challenging experience. However, calling a professional restoration company is the most effective way to ensure a thorough and safe restoration process. With their expertise, specialized equipment, and commitment to preventing mold and further damage, these professionals can help you get your home back to its pre-damage condition, providing peace of mind during a stressful time. Remember that quick action is crucial when dealing with water damage, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help as soon as you notice any signs of damage.

If you are reading this and are facing current water damage in your home, click here to locate a certified Voda technician near you that can help 24/7.

Winter storms can be breathtakingly beautiful, but they can also wreak havoc on your property. The combination of heavy snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and strong winds can lead to various forms of damage, including roof leaks, frozen pipes, fallen trees, and power outages. Knowing what steps to take when your property is damaged from a winter storm is crucial to minimizing further destruction and ensuring the safety and comfort of your family. In this blog post, we’ll explore five essential steps to take in the aftermath of a winter storm.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before you do anything else, prioritize safety. Winter storms can create hazardous conditions, so it’s essential to assess and mitigate potential dangers:

• Check for Downed Power Lines: Stay away from any downed power lines, and assume that they are live. Report them to your local utility company immediately.
• Inspect for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave the property immediately and contact the gas company or emergency services from a safe location.
• Watch for Ice and Snow Accumulation: Be cautious of ice and snow accumulation on roofs, trees, and power lines. These can fall unexpectedly and pose significant dangers.
• Clear Walkways and Driveways: Remove snow and ice from walkways and driveways to prevent slip-and-fall accidents.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Once you’ve ensured your safety and that of your family, document the damage to your property. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and future repairs:

• Take Photographs: Use your smartphone or camera to take clear, detailed photographs and videos of the damage. Include wide shots to provide context and close-ups to highlight specific issues.
• Create an Inventory: Make a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their approximate value. This will help with insurance claims.
• Keep All Receipts: If you need to make immediate repairs to prevent further damage, keep all receipts and records of expenses.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Provide them with all the information and documentation you gathered in Step 2:

• Give a Detailed Description: Describe the damage accurately and provide the date and time it occurred.
• Provide Photos and Inventory: Share the photographs, videos, and inventory of damaged items.
• Follow Their Guidance: Follow your insurance company’s instructions regarding filing a claim, arranging inspections, and making temporary repairs.

Step 4: Prevent Further Damage

Taking action to prevent further damage is crucial. If you can do so safely, consider these steps:

• Temporary Repairs: If you have the necessary skills, make temporary repairs to stop leaks, cover broken windows, or secure damaged doors. Keep all receipts and records of these repairs for your insurance claim.
• Winterize Pipes: If your property has frozen pipes, turn off the water supply and open faucets to drain remaining water. Thaw the pipes carefully to avoid bursts.
• Remove Snow and Ice: Safely remove snow and ice from your roof to prevent further damage and potential roof collapses. Be cautious and consider hiring professionals for this task.
• Trim or Remove Hazardous Trees: If there are damaged or leaning trees on your property that pose a threat to your safety or home, contact a professional tree service to assess and address the situation.

Step 5: Seek Professional Help

In many cases, it’s best to enlist the help of professionals to assess and repair storm damage:

• Roofing Contractors: Hire a reputable roofing contractor to inspect and repair any damage to your roof. Leaks and structural damage can worsen over time.
• Plumbers: If you suspect frozen or burst pipes, contact a licensed plumber to assess and address the issue. Frozen pipes can lead to significant water damage if not properly handled.
• Electricians: If you experience electrical problems due to the storm, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and repair any damage. Electrical issues can be hazardous.
• Restoration Services: For extensive damage, consider contacting a professional restoration company. They have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle various types of storm damage, including water mitigation, mold remediation, and structural repairs.

Dealing with property damage caused by a winter storm can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help you navigate the situation effectively. Prioritize safety, document the damage, contact your insurance company, prevent further damage, and seek professional help as needed. By following these five essential steps, you can protect your property, your family’s well-being, and ensure a smoother recovery process after a winter storm. Remember that acting promptly can make a significant difference in the extent of damage and the cost of repairs.

If you are in need of storm and water damage restoration services, click here to locate a Voda certified technician to help you get back to living. We offer 24/7 emergency services.