Winter Storms and Freezing Temperatures: How to Prepare and Protect Your Home this January

1/2/2025 (Permalink)

Winter in Minnesota is no joke. As January settles in, we're hit with freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and the occasional blizzard. While this is just another season for locals, it also comes with the increased risk of damage to homes and businesses. Here at SERVPRO® of Downtown Minneapolis, we’re Here to help® you understand the potential dangers of winter storms and freezing temperatures—and provide you with practical tips on how to prepare your property for whatever the winter months throw your way.

The Dangers of Winter Storms

Winter storms bring a host of challenges, from snow accumulation and icy roads to dangerously low temperatures. But there are two main concerns we want to highlight when it comes to property damage:

1. Frozen Pipes: When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipes to burst. A burst pipe can result in extensive water damage to your home, leading to expensive repairs. The most common areas for frozen pipes are in unheated spaces like attics, basements, and garages.

2. Roof Damage: Accumulating snow, ice, and the weight of ice dams can cause serious roof damage. Ice dams occur when the heat from your home melts snow on the roof, and the melted water refreezes at the roof's edge. This can block drainage, causing water to back up under shingles and leading to leaks inside the house.

How to Protect Your Home During Freezing Temperatures

While you can’t control the weather, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of winter damage.

1. Insulate Your Pipes

The first line of defense against frozen pipes is insulation. Make sure all exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces are properly insulated. If you're unsure, contact a plumber to inspect the piping and provide additional insulation where needed. You can also leave cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around pipes, especially those under sinks in exterior walls.

2. Keep Your Home Warm

Even if you're going out of town for a few days, make sure your home stays warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C), even when you're away. Additionally, during particularly cold spells, open up faucets slightly to let them drip overnight—this helps keep the water flowing and reduces the chances of freezing.

3. Maintain Your Roof

The weight of snow and ice on your roof can lead to damage or leaks, especially in older homes. Keep your gutters clear of leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage. If ice dams do form, you can carefully remove them with a roof rake. It’s always best to call in a professional roofer if you suspect damage or if you’re dealing with large amounts of ice.

4. Check Your Heating System

Before the harshest cold sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to make sure it’s in good working order. A malfunctioning furnace can leave your home at risk of freezing pipes and other temperature-related problems.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

Winter storms often come with power outages, so it’s essential to be prepared. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and other essentials. Keep blankets and warm clothing accessible in case you lose heat. You can also purchase a backup generator to maintain power in critical areas like your heating system and water pumps.

What to Do If Winter Damage Happens

Even with the best preparation, sometimes damage happens—whether it’s a burst pipe or water leaking through your ceiling from ice dams. If you experience property damage this winter, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO. We specialize in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and emergency board-up services.

Our team of trained professionals is available 24/7 to quickly respond to emergencies and minimize further damage to your property. Whether it’s restoring water-damaged walls and floors or removing excess snow from your roof, we’ll work with you to get your home back to normal in no time.

Stay Safe and Stay Warm!

Winter in Minneapolis can be tough, but with the right precautions, you can minimize the risks to your home and keep your family safe and warm. If you have any concerns about how winter storms might affect your property, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO. We're Here to help® make your winter a little easier to handle.

Stay safe, stay warm, and let us handle the rest!