Seasonal SERVPRO Tips!

11/25/2024 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we are thankful for many things, our amazing team, but most of all, you! Our customers come first every step of the way, Happy Holidays!

As the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to fall, it’s time to prepare for the colder months ahead. At SERVPRO®, we know that seasonal transitions can bring a host of challenges for homeowners and business owners alike. From potential fire hazards to frozen pipes and mold growth, there are several things you can do now to safeguard your property. 

Here are some essential fall and winter tips to help protect your home or business and avoid costly damage: 

1. Check Your Heating System

Before you turn on your furnace for the season, make sure it's in good working condition. A malfunctioning heating system can lead to home fires if clogged with dust and debris. Have a professional inspect and clean your furnace to ensure it runs efficiently and safely. If you use a fireplace be sure the chimney is clean and checked for obstructions.

2. Prevent Frozen Pipes 

As temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes increases. Burst pipes can cause extensive water damage and be expensive to repair. Insulate exposed pipes particularly those in unheated areas like basements, the garage, and attics. Let Faucets drip slowly during extreme cold spells to keep water moving and prevent freezing. If you plan to be away during the winter, consider shutting off your water supply to prevent potential leaks. 

3. Inspect Roof and Gutters

Winter weather can be hard on your home’s roof and gutters. Fallen Leaves and debris can block gutters, leading to water buildup and potential ice dams that can cause water to back up into your home. Clean your gutters thoroughly and inspect your roof for any loose or damaged shingles that could allow water to seep through during a storm. 

4. Prepare for Snow and Ice

Snow and ice can be beautiful, but they can also cause significant damage. Make sure to salt or sand walkways, driveways, and stairs to prevent ice buildup and slip hazards. If you live in an area prone to snowfall, make sure you have a snow shovel or snowblower on hand and ready to use. 

5. Inspect and Maintain Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With the increased use of heating systems and fireplaces, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure rises in the colder months. Test your smoke detectors to make sure they’re operating properly. Replace the batteries and consider updating dated heating systems to newer models. 

6. Watching for Signs of Mold Growth 

Mold thrives in warm, damp environments, making fall and winter an ideal time for mold to grow, particularly when you have excess moisture from rain or snow. Check areas like basements, crawl spaces, and around windows for visible mold growth or a musty smell. If you suspect mold, act quickly, and address the issue, as mold can spread rapidly,\ and cause damage to your home and health.

7. Fire Safety During the Holidays 

The holiday season brings with it the potential for increased fire risk. Keep candles away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and make sure to extinguish them before leaving a room. If you use space heaters, keep them at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, and other combustibles. Always plug space heaters into the wall socket alone and never in an extension cord to avoid electrical fires. 

8. Have Winter Emergency Kit Ready

Being prepared for winter storms and power outages can make all the difference in the event of an emergency. Keep an emergency kit in your home with essential items like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, blankets, a first aid kit, and nonperishable food. Having these items on hand can help you feel safe and comfortable in case of an emergency or power outage. 

9. Plan for Storm Damage

Heavy rain, snowstorms, and even flooding can occur this time of year. If you’re in an area prone to flooding, consider sandbagging or installing sump pumps to mitigate water damage. Review your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for storm-related damage.

Why SERVPRO?

Even with all the preparation, sometimes disaster still strikes. When they do, SERVPRO is Here to Help®. Our team specializes in water, fire, and mold damage restoration, and we’re ready to respond quickly to any emergency. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a fire caused by a malfunctioning heater, or mold after a winter storm, we’ve got the experts and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Don’t wait till disaster strikes- take proactive steps now to protect your property this fall and winter season. And if the unexpected happens, SERVPRO is just a call away.