Water Damage From Temperature Changes

April is generally considered to be a transitional month from winter to spring here in Anchorage. The average high temperature in April is around 45 degrees Fahrenheit, with lows averaging around 28 degrees Fahrenheit. This means snow and ice will begin to melt during the day but can freeze again as the temperature drops at night. 

Water Damage Restoration Anchorage

While we welcome warmer weather, this can cause serious water damage issues for our homes. When temperatures vary this much in a day, here are some possible examples of resulting water damage:

1. Freeze-Thaw Damage: When water penetrates cracks and pores in a surface and then freezes and expands as temperatures drop, it can cause the surface to crack or break apart. This can happen to concrete, masonry, or even pipes. Then, when the water thaws again, it can leak through these breaks, leaving you needing water damage restoration.
2. Ice Dams: If melting snow on a roof refreezes at the edge of the roof, it can create a dam that prevents water from draining correctly off of the roof. This can cause water to back up under shingles or other roofing materials, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home.
3. Burst Pipes: When temperatures fluctuate rapidly, pipes can expand and contract, which can cause them to burst. This can happen to indoor and outdoor pipes, leading to water damage and flooding that require restoration of water damage. 
4. Floods: Rapid melting of snow can cause water to accumulate quickly, leading to flooding in low-lying areas or near bodies of water. This can cause significant water damage to homes, businesses, and other structures in the affected area. Water damage from flooding requires professional water damage restoration to correctly remove, dry, and clean up the damage, and it needs to begin right away to mitigate any further damage.

As the temperatures begin to fluctuate from 45 degrees to below freezing in the upcoming month, it is essential to take preventative steps to address the potential water damage issues that can result, including:

1. Insulate Pipes: Pipes that are not adequately insulated are more susceptible to damage from temperature fluctuations. Adding insulation around pipes can help prevent them from freezing or bursting. This is especially important for outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics.
2. Clear Snow From Roofs: Snow accumulating on a roof can cause ice dams and leaks. To prevent this, removing snow from your roof when possible using a rake or other tools is essential. 
3. Ensure Proper Drainage: Proper drainage around your property can help prevent flooding and water damage. This includes checking the grading of the soil around your home, ensuring gutters are clear of debris, and checking that downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation. 

By taking these preventative steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of needing water damage restoration in your home as the snow begins to melt. If you do find yourself dealing with water damage from melting and freezing water this spring, be sure to call the water damage restoration experts at TCM Restoration.