Winter is the time of the year when many homes face structural problems. The harsh and extreme winter conditions make it difficult for homes to maintain their structural integrity. Many homes face roof leaks, cracked walls, foundation cracks, and so on. These issues not only lead to a decrease in the value of your home but also affect its overall stability and safety. This article will provide insights into five common structural issues and suggest fixes that homeowners can use to resolve the problems.
Snow Loads
One of the most common structural issues homeowners face during the winter season is snow load. As the weight of snow increases, it can cause damage to the roof, walls, and foundation. The best way to prevent this is by removing the snow regularly using a shovel or a snowblower, especially after heavy snowfall. Moreover, you can call a contractor such as Brown’s Roofing to replace your roof with a more durable material to prevent damage.
Ice Damming
Ice damming happens when the warm air from your home melts the snow on the roof, creating channels where water can enter. When the water freezes again, it forms ice dams that damage your roof and gutters. One effective solution to this problem is to increase attic insulation and ventilation to help prevent the warmer air from reaching the roof. You can also install heating cables to combat the accumulation of ice and snow on the roof.
Drafts
Drafts and air leaks cause chilliness, allowing the cold air from outside to seep in. Examine areas like windows, doors, and chimneys to identify where the drafts come from. The best way to prevent this is by adding weatherstripping to the doors and windows, which will help seal any gaps. You can replace older windows with double-paned ones that provide more insulation, keeping the warmth inside your home and preventing cold drafts.
Cracked Walls
Wall cracks may be due to the freeze-thaw process of moisture inside the sheetrock. Water freezes and expands inside the walls, leading to the formation of cracks. One of the easiest ways to solve this issue is by using a high-quality sealant to fill in any visible cracks. In case the cracks are more significant, professional help might be needed to diagnose and repair the problem.
Foundation Cracks
The extreme cold of winter can cause soil around your home to freeze and expand, leading to cracks in the foundation. Besides, water frozen inside the cracks can expand, leading to an increase in their size. One way to prevent this problem is by ensuring proper drainage to carry water away from your home’s foundation. If water freezes in the pipes, it may lead to cracks. Homeowners can also contact professionals to install a sump pump system to help control the soil’s water levels.
Winter can be a challenging season for homeowners due to the structural issues it poses. It is essential to fix these problems promptly to avoid any further damage. Homeowners can protect their homes from these structural problems by regularly maintaining it before the winter season starts. The tips provided in this article can help homeowners address the most common structural issues homes face during winter and maintain their homes’ value and overall stability.
Author Bio
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.