3 Kinds of Water Damage To Watch For in Winter
Most people don’t associate the winter season with flooding or any kind of water damage. However, when temperatures drop below freezing in Georgia, many homes and businesses face increased expenses due to water damage.
Below are some of the most common reasons why property owners need water damage restoration services in winter.
#1: Burst Pipes
Though Georgia is known for its seasonal warmth and excellent growing seasons, severe winter weather is no stranger to the state. When temperatures dip below freezing in Braselton, GA, and surrounding areas, unprepared homeowners and business owners often experience frozen pipes.
The first complication from frozen pipes is little to no water flow or pressure. Standing water in poorly insulated pipes slowly loses heat, eventually freezing. Even if the water level in the pipes is minimal, the water expands during the freezing process, taking up more space inside the pipe.
The resulting ice can damage the pipe by:
- Increasing the internal pressure in the pipe
- Making the pipe material more brittle and at risk for breakage
- Cracking or separating joints
- Splintering or bursting the pipe walls
One of the best ways for property owners to avoid water removal or water damage restoration after winter storms is to schedule regular maintenance and inspection of all plumbing fixtures. Trained experts can determine whether pipes and plumbing systems have proper insulation before the dangerous temperatures arrive.
#2: Frozen Gutters
When snowmelt drains into gutters while the temperatures are below freezing, it has a strong likelihood of freezing. Ice in gutters works the same way excess debris does and blocks the channels from draining water away from sensitive structural elements, such as gardens, rooftops, and more.
Many property owners attempt to clear frozen gutters themselves, risking an accident or property damage in the process. Trained commercial cleaning and restoration experts can safely and effectively thaw gutters, removing any debris or blockages and returning them to normal function.
#3: Roof Damage
Winter storms bring excessive snowfall, ice buildup, and other factors that pose risks to rooftops.
The danger begins when snowfall surpasses half a foot or more, distributing massive added weight across the roof’s surface. This excess weight stresses the roof structures, worsening existing weak spots and creating new structural cracks.
As snow melts, the bottom layers absorb water and become heavier, soaking roof tiles, wood, and other organic materials underneath. Combined, these factors contribute to roof cave-ins, flooding, and other issues.
Finally, when gutters clog due to ice, water can pool on rooftop surfaces, increasing the risk of:
- Mold
- Rot
- Structural damage
- Flooding inside walls and attics
- And more
Braselton’s #1 Water Damage Restoration Company
Property owners who need water removal or water damage restoration services in Braselton, GA, should look no further than Matrix Mitigation Services. These seasoned experts specialize in dependable, affordable commercial and residential remediation and restoration services, including fire damage restoration, storm damage repair, and more.
Find answers to your water damage restoration, schedule mold remediation services, or request an estimate today. Call Matrix Mitigation at (855) 541-1010 today.
