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5 Dangers Freezing Temps Pose to Your Home

January 20, 2025

As temperatures plummet in Woburn and surrounding areas, our homes become increasingly vulnerable to a variety of dangers posed by freezing temperatures. While we often think of the cold weather affecting us directly, it can also have serious consequences on your home, leading to significant damage and costly repairs.

Fortunately, with a little preparation and proactive measures, you can protect your home from these winter hazards.

1. Frozen Pipes and Water Damage

One of the most common and costly issues that arise during freezing weather is the freezing of water pipes. When temperatures dip below freezing, the water inside exposed pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and crack. This can lead to burst pipes, resulting in water damage to your home’s walls, ceilings, floors, and personal belongings.

To protect your pipes, start by insulating any exposed or vulnerable pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages. If the temperature is expected to drop drastically, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving. For added protection, keep cabinet doors open beneath sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

2. Roof Damage and Ice Dams

When snow accumulates on your roof and the temperatures rise and fall throughout the day, melting snow can refreeze at the edge of the roof, forming a barrier of ice. This ice dam prevents proper drainage, causing water to back up under your shingles. Over time, this trapped water can leak into your home, causing damage to the roof, walls, insulation, and ceilings.

To prevent ice dams, ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to help maintain a consistent temperature across the roof. After heavy snowfall, clear the snow off your roof using a roof rake with a long handle, especially around the eaves.

3. Frozen and Cracked Foundations

Freezing temperatures can also impact your home’s foundation. When the ground freezes, it expands, and this can cause pressure on your foundation, leading to cracks or even shifts, weakening the structural integrity of your home over time.

Ensure that the soil around your home is properly graded to allow water to drain away from the foundation. Clear any snow or ice buildup around the perimeter of your home to prevent moisture from seeping into cracks in the foundation. And make sure downspouts extend at least three feet away from the foundation.

4. Damage to Exterior Paint and Siding

Freezing temperatures can cause paint and siding on the exterior of your home to crack or peel. As moisture from rain or melting snow seeps into cracks and freezes, it can expand and cause further damage, leading to unsightly and expensive repairs.

Ensure that your home’s exterior is well-maintained. Check for cracks in the paint or siding, and touch them up before the cold sets in.

5. Safety Hazards from Ice on Walkways

Icy sidewalks, driveways, and stairs are common hazards during freezing temperatures. Slippery surfaces can cause slips and falls, leading to serious injuries.

Keep walkways clear of snow and ice by shoveling and salting them regularly. If you are physically unable to do, hire a snow removal company, a neighborhood teen, or ask a family member or neighbor for help.

For all your plumbing, heating, maintenance, and remodeling needs, Pann is at your service. Contact us today and enjoy a warm, comfortable home throughout the winter season.

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