When you talk about insurance and ice, everyone expects the “how to avoid black ice” blog post. But there are so many other ways ice can cause trouble for your home! Let’s talk about the 2 big things to remember about ice and your home.
How to Avoid Frozen Pipes
When the temperature plunges at night, it’s important to remember your pipes before heading to bed. Water damage claims are some of the trickiest claims for homeowners, and they are the most common cause of home insurance claims.
- Make sure your furnace is set above 65 degrees.
- Open your cabinets for any sink pipes that are against an exterior wall.
- Let your faucet lightly drip overnight.
- Disconnect your garden hoses from the hose bib/spigots on your home.
- Get smart! Home tech, that is. You can install smart water devices that detect leaks.
- Make sure your garage door is shut.
- Identify any exposed piping that can be vulnerable to freezing and apply heat tape.
- Enlist someone to check on your house if you’re going to be gone for multiple days for a long weekend. (Can’t find someone? Shut off your water and drain the pipes before you leave.)
What is an Ice Dam?
Also, if your gutters aren’t draining properly, water can build up and seep into your home. Or it can freeze, causing an ice dam. That begs the question: how do you stop an ice dam?
- Ensure your home is insulated correctly.
- Seal any gaps that are causing warm air to leak.
- Ventilate your attic so cool air can enter. You don’t want the roof too warm because it causes the snow to melt and then refreeze when it comes into contact with the cool air.
- Have your roof & gutters completely inspected on an annual basis. We work with some awesome referral partners we are happy to recommend!
Before Cold Weather Strikes…
… it’s a good idea to give your house a quick inspection based on these tips! Staying on top of home maintenance is a great way to avoid a costly claim. Your Cincinnatus advisor is also ready to answer any questions you may have about your policy and if it’s ready for winter. Contact us today if you have any questions!