Can you feel it? Spring is almost here, meaning we’re in the final stretch of the long and snowy winter season. People around the country can finally start their annual spring cleaning rituals, flowers will (eventually) start to bloom, migratory birds will soon return, and homeowners everywhere will begin to tear out their hair out of the many frustrations that come with the spring thaw. Quickly melting snow can cause major problems for home and cottage owners everywhere, bringing with it flooding and property damage that can be mostly avoided by taking the proper proactive precautions. Here’s what you can do to protect your home or cottage from water damage this spring.
Be proactive with snow removal
The most effective step you can take to avoid water damage to your home or cottage is to get proactive with snow removal. Some homes become flooded when the rapidly melting snow finds its way into your property. The best way to avoid this common problem is to simply ensure that there is less snow around your property’s foundation. Grab a shovel and head outside to clear away any of the snow sitting against and near your home’s foundation, which will allow the melting snow to drain further away from the foundation and minimize the risk of excess water finding its way into your property.
It’s also a good idea to clear snow away from your window wells for the same reasons, as these wells provide easy entry for snowmelt. While you’re outside clearing snow away, check to see that your home’s downspouts are clear and still connected, as they sometimes become dislodged during the winter season. Ideally, downspouts should extend at least two metres away from your home, and a path for the water to drain away from your home should be maintained until the snow melts away and obstructions are cleared.
Check your windows for signs of damage
The winter season can cause many problems for your home’s windows and doors, so it’s always a good idea to inspect these areas of your home’s interior and exterior to ensure that they’re in good working order. An exceptionally harsh winter season or two can do a number on your windows, especially the weather stripping as the cold weather can cause them to lose their flexibility and ultimately create opportunities for air leaks and water seepage. Windows can also be damaged by ice buildup and falling ice. Check out your windows and seals for signs of potential damage and have them addressed immediately by a window professional. If your window issues are resolved before next winter, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that your home will stay warm and dry for the foreseeable future.
Make sure your roof and eavestrough are in good working order
The roof can be another source of water damage during the spring thaw, so it’s always a good idea to make sure that it’s free of damage and functioning as it’s meant to. Ice dams can form on the edge of your roof, typically caused by heat leaks in your attic. If you notice that ice damming is taking place, it’s a good idea to hire an inspector to check your attic for leaks and repair it to ensure that warm air isn’t escaping through the attic.
While you’re at it, make sure that your eavestroughs are free of damage so they can continue redirecting snow melt from your roof away from your home. A clogged or damaged eavestrough can cause a buildup of water which may cause damage to your roof or leak into your home. That’s why it’s important to clean your eavestroughs every fall to clear it of debris. If you’re sick of cleaning them out, screen guards can be installed to stop debris from making its way into your eavestroughs.
If your windows or doors have been damaged from the spring thaw or you’re looking to get a headstart on spring home maintenance, you can count on Muskoka Window & Door Centre to guide you through your new window and door repair or replacement. Our experienced team can help you find the perfect doors or windows to keep your cottage comfortable and energy efficient all year round. To request a quote for your upcoming project, get in touch with Muskoka Window & Door Centre today.