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How to protect your home in winter?

Posted on Nov. 15th, 2013

Every winter in New England, we experience a lot of snow – various accidents and damages result from the furious snow blizzards. A typical example of a weak spot in our homes is the roof – it often gets covered with snow which requires to be removed in order not to damage it. Other possible damages include frozen and burst pipes, fallen or cracked gutters, etc. In order to avoid all this, you need to prepare yourself and your home for the winter months with the following steps.

Check the capacity of your roof

Every roof can handle a certain quantity of snow. Usually, the quantity is 20 pounds per sq. ft., but in areas with heavier snowfall the capacity may be more – more information can be found from the building department in your area. If your roof can handle 20 pounds per sq. ft., this means the following:

• Fresh snow: max. 4 ft. (1 ft. = 5 pounds per sq. ft.)
• Old snow: max. 2 ft. (1 ft. = 10 pounds per sq. ft.)
• Ice: max. 4 inches (1 inch = 5 pounds per sq. ft.)

Don’t attempt to remove the snow on your own with the help of a ladder. Instead, use a snow rake from the ground. For higher roofs, a snow-removal contractor should be hired.

Prepare your water pipes

Your pipes are another vulnerable part of your home and they can freeze and burst as a result of the cold weather, causing leaks and a lot of damage. The following can prevent this from happening:

• A second heat source in case of a power outage (a wood stove, a power generator);
• Insulation of the openings in your attic (access doors, electrical chases, vents, plumbing stacks);
• Sealing of windows and doors.

Various insulations can be purchased and wrapped around your pipes to keep them warm. For example, the electrified wrapping known as ‘heat tape’. If you choose this type, make sure to have it installed by an electrician.

Prevent ice dams

Ice dams are extremely dangerous – they do not allow the melting snow to drain, so the water goes down the walls, the ceilings and the insulation. In order to prevent this, you need to keep the roof drainage in order, to regularly check the gutters for drains and to make sure no leaves and other plants prevent snow and water from draining. You can also insulate your ceiling and improve its ventilation, thus keeping your roof warmer and helping the snow to melt. Heat-cables with self-regulation are another option.

Be cautious with heat sources

Have in mind that if your heat sources are not installed and maintained properly, they may result in a fire. Stick to the following regulations:

• Flammable items should be kept at min. 3 ft. from a heater.
• Your heat source should be tested and certified.
• Installation should adhere to all the recommendations and regulations.
• Keep the vents of the heaters unclogged and clean.
• Have your heaters inspected regularly.