Prepare Your Home for the Winter Season: Tips from a Restoration Expert

The winter

season is upon us, bringing travel and the need to be away from home. For some, this may mean just an overnight stay, but for others, it could involve several days or even weeks out of town.

As a restoration contractor with over 20 years of experience in water damage restoration, I have encountered nearly every scenario imaginable regarding water damage during the holiday break. From the family cat accidentally turning on the kitchen sink to a clogged toilet caused by a visiting nephew, unexpected issues can arise. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing account for approximately 20% of insurance claims. Frozen water pipes due to a sudden deep freeze over Christmas weekend are just a few examples. All these situations are very real and have resulted in thousands of dollars in damage. To help you avoid these dilemmas during the holiday season, here’s a short list of essential steps to take.

1. Set Your Thermostat

Before leaving home, ensure that your thermostat is set to a comfortable temperature. Many people think they can lower it to 50 degrees since they won’t be home to enjoy it. However, this can lead to significant problems.

• Importance: During extreme cold, areas where plumbing runs through attics and crawl spaces can become susceptible to freezing. A study by the American Society of Home Inspectors states that pipes can freeze when temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Lowering the temperature to 50 degrees increases the risk of pipes freezing and bursting when temperatures rise.

• Tip: Consider investing in a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely, allowing you to adjust settings while you’re away.

2. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

Every home should have a main water shut-off valve. Before leaving for the holidays, locate and turn off the main water supply to your home, often found near the water heater.

• Detail: If you can’t find it, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. While they’re there, test the valve to ensure it functions properly—if not, have it replaced.

• Tip: Mark the valve with a label for easy identification in the future. Just shutting off the water isn’t enough; the remaining water in the pipes can still freeze. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, even a small amount of trapped water can lead to significant damage. To prevent this, turn on the faucets to relieve pressure in the lines and allow for any ice expansion. Additionally, remember to turn off the electric water heater at the circuit panel to avoid damaging the heating element.

3. Arrange for a Trusted Neighbor

It’s always a good idea to have a friend or neighbor you can count on to keep an eye on your house while you’re away.

• Importance: They can collect your mail, check on pets, and ensure nothing seems out of the ordinary, which can also deter potential break-ins.

• Tip: Make a list of tasks for them, such as rotating lights or moving cars to simulate occupancy, and include emergency contact information for your plumber, HVAC contractor, and insurance company.

4. Prepare for the Unexpected

“Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.” Having a plan can help you navigate overwhelming situations.

• Planning: The best strategy is to create a list of your preferred contractors and vet them before you need them. Choose a plumber, HVAC technician, electrician, and a restoration contractor for emergency water cleanup, drying, roof tarping, and fire damage restoration.

• Tip: Call these companies to inquire about their processes, request references and referrals, and read reviews to ensure you’re working with the best professionals in your time of greatest need.

While this isn’t a guarantee that nothing bad will happen, it does provide valuable information to help you be prepared for the unexpected.

Stay safe and enjoy your holidays!

Eric Speakman

Leading Edge Fire & Water Restoration