Winter Storm Types

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

While most winter storms bring precipitation, there are differences in how they affect the environment around us and how they can damage our home or business. As we head deeper into the winter months it is a necessity to be prepared to minimize the chance of any possible damage. As a company, it is our hope to help others steer clear of any disaster before it has a chance to present itself. Here are some winter storm types, and what to prepare for.

Rainstorm

 A rainstorm has a heavy precipitation downpour. While it may not carry freezing elements, the heavy rain can problems. The larger damages would be floods and landslides that could potentially seriously damage homes or businesses in its vicinity. On an individual level, there are ways to protect your home or business from a rainstorm. 

• Check your sealant.
• The sealant around the windows in your home can allow for water to enter I they are cracked. Over time, this can allow for mold to grow.
• Clear your gutters.
• Having clear gutters moves the water away from your roof and minimizes the potential for water leaking into your roof.
• Maintain good drainage.
• Good drainage will allow for quickly rising water to be dispersed away from your home.

Ice Storm

An ice storm carries heavy precipitation with freezing temperatures. This combination results in an accumulation of ice on everything the precipitation touches. While it may not result in flooding like a rainstorm, an ice storm still carries environmental dangers. Here are some ways to help avoid ice storm damage

• Frozen pipes.
• Insulating exposed pipes will help to keep them from freezing. Even the smallest amount of insulation can help to keep the temperature warm enough not to freeze
• Let your faucets drip to keep a flow through your pipes. 
• Trim overgrown and damaged trees.
• When ice accumulates on trees, it weighs them down significantly. Dead branches, specifically branches that hang over your home or business should be removed. 

Snowstorm

Snowstorms can cause much of the same damages as ice storms including broken limbs and frozen pipes. However, there are some damages that snowstorms are more prone to causing. One is called an ice dam.

• Ice dams happen due to the uneven temperatures of a roof. Snow will melt on one section, then refreeze in another, usually closer to the edge of a roof. This can cause leaks into your walls causing mold and water damage.
• Adding insulation to your attic may help to even out the temperature
• Snow rakes are another great way to minimize the risk of an ice dam on your roof

If you have experienced damage from a winter storm, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of West Sacramento we are here to help.