Winter is known for bringing seasonal challenges that can affect homes and businesses, yet most owners are unaware of the work that needs to be put into their infrastructure before the season hits. The wrath of last year’s winter revealed that many home and business owners were left unprepared to deal with the massive inches of snow and ice that pounded most of the country.
With this year’s winter season approaching, Palace Restoration has developed a preparation checklist to help owners be better equipped to withstand the cold. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind to avoid future winter damage in a home or business:
General Winterization
- Make sure your gutters are draining properly by removing buildup of leaves and debris
- Do a full inspection of exterior infrastructure (roof, walls, doors and window frames) – repair any signs of damage, cracks, leaks or exposed areas
- Test your sump pump by slowly filling it with water—watch for the float to rise which should turn on the pump, then watch to make sure the water level drops
- Visit a home improvement store to purchase inexpensive pipe wrapping
- Improve insulation to common areas and windows (consider purchasing items such as heat shrink wraps and thermal drapes)
- Ensure downspouts direct water 5-10 feet away from your property
Tree Service
- Schedule tree service prior to the first snow fall
- Clear out dead or weak branches that might crack or break under heavy snow, ice or wind
- On warmer, dryer winter days, consider watering your trees to keep them healthy
Sidewalks and Driveways
- Stock up on snow melt supplies like rock salt and ice melt prior to first snow fall
- Secure contracts with snow clearing companies/ purchase necessary equipment early
- Keep sidewalks and driveways clear throughout the winter
- Helps to reduce insurance liability and city citations
- Will mitigate cracking, heaving and other types of damage
Heating
- Service your furnace, boilers and fireplaces before the season starts (clear all units and inspect if parts need replacements)
- Do not turn heat off or put under 67 degrees—even on vacation, this will prevent frozen pipes and water damage
- Most insurance carriers will deny winter water loss claims if the heater is proven to have been off
When Palace Construction began serving Colorado clients in 1963, repairing residences and businesses damaged by storms was its sole focus. Five decades later, that cornerstone capability has evolved significantly. Palace’s Restoration Division is now recognized regionally as the restoration contractor of choice when experience counts. Palace Restoration works in conjunction with many major insurance providers to help restore damaged property as quickly as possible in accordance with the insurance policy. Palace Restoration offers a 24/7 emergency hotline at 303-777-7999.
