Rain then snow increase the risk of water damage

Parts of the south were treated to an unusual snowfall Thursday. Remants of the wintry wonder will melt away today as temperatures quickly climb. This wil make for soggy conditions, especially considering the amount of rain that also fell in those areas this week. Be aware of the potential for interior water damage and act quickly if it does happen.

The largest accumulation of snow fell was 8 inches in parts of southern Louisiana, according to the National Weather Service. By Thursday afternoon, southern Louisiana had accumulated more inches of snow this winter season than Boston, Philadelphia and New York City combined. New Orleans' last snowfall, in 2004, was a dusting.

Water damage left unattended can result in structural failure or, potentially, mold growth. Here are some ways to minimize your risk of damage, according engineers from the Institute for Business & Home Safety:

Home's Interior:

• Windows and Doors: check for leaks, especially near the corners.
• Peeling paint: it can be a sign of water getting into the wood.
• Discolorations: inspect paint and caulking, look for swelling of the window or doorframe or surrounding materials.
• Drywall: Drywall: is an extremely porous material and is difficult to dry out completely, damaged areas should be replaced if any signs of moisture are present.
• Humidity: relative humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%.
  • Condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, and musty smells are signs that you may have too much humidity in your home.
  • Check areas where air does not easily circulate, such as behind curtains, under beds, and in closets for dampness and mildew.
  • If you are concerned about the humidity level in your home, consult with a mechanical contractor or air conditioning repair company to determine if your HVAC system is properly sized and in good working order.  

Home's Exterior:

• Flashing: is typically a thin metal strip found around doors, windows, thresholds, chimneys, and roofs, is designed to prevent water intrusion in spaces where two different building surfaces meet. Check to see if it's secure.
• Exterior Wood Sheathing and Siding: these should be replaced it water damage is present. Inspect any wood sided walls to ensure there is at least 8" between any wood and the earth.
• Exterior Walls: don't place compost or leaf piles against the outside walls or allow vines to grow because they can help open cracks in the siding, which allows moisture or insects to enter the house.  
• Roof: have a professional roof inspection annually. Repairs are needed if there are signs of cracked or missing shingles or loose or missing granules; if flashing has deteriorated, particularly around chimneys and vents; or if pooling water is present.
  • Leaks are particularly common around chimneys, plumbing vents and attic vents.
  • To trace the source of a ceiling leak, measure its location from the nearest outside wall and then locate this point in the attic using a measuring tape.
  • Keep in mind that the water may run along the attic floor, rafters, or truss for quite a distance before coming through the ceiling.

Comments

[Boston Roofers]

A lot of great tips for any homeowner.

It's especially important (like you mentioned above) that the roof of your home is inspected at least once a year, if not more (typically after each season). This doesn't mean you need a professional to come out to inspect it, do it yourself. Look for any inconsistencies in the roof, look for missing shingles, water spots, remove leaves/branches etc...This will definitely help increase the life expectancy of your roof.

-Tim