Your Post-Winter Storm Home Checklist: What to Inspect After a Heavy Snow and Ice Storm

Your Post-Winter Storm Home Checklist: What to Inspect After a Heavy Snow and Ice Storm

 

Old Man Winter can be a real grump, and when he unleashes a blizzard’s fury on your home, it’s important to know what to check once the storm passes. Here’s a handy checklist to help you assess and address potential damage:

 

1. Roof and Gutters

  • Ice Dams: These frozen barriers can prevent melting snow from draining, leading to water backing up into your home. Look for icicles hanging from the eaves and gutters – a telltale sign of ice dams.
    • Pro Tip: If you suspect an ice dam, do not attempt to remove it yourself with sharp tools or by climbing on the roof. This is dangerous! Instead, apply calcium chloride ice melt to help break it down, or call a professional for safe removal.
  • Snow Load: Heavy snow accumulation can put significant stress on your roof. If you see sagging or hear creaking, it’s crucial to contact a professional for removal.
    • Pro Tip: Use a roof rake (from the ground!) to carefully remove excess snow from the edges of your roof, reducing the load.
  • Gutter Damage: Ice and snow can cause gutters to detach or become clogged. Inspect them for damage and clear any debris.
    • Pro Tip: While inspecting, flush your gutters with water to ensure proper drainage once the ice thaws completely.

2. Walls and Foundation

  • Cracks: Check for new cracks in exterior walls or the foundation, which could indicate structural stress from the weight of snow or ice expansion.
    • Pro Tip: Mark any new cracks with tape and monitor them over the next few days to see if they grow or change, indicating a potentially serious issue.
  • Water Damage: Look for signs of water intrusion, such as damp spots or discoloration on walls, especially in basements and crawl spaces.
    • Pro Tip: Improve drainage around your foundation by ensuring the ground slopes away from the house, and consider extending downspouts further away.

3. Trees and Shrubs

  • Broken Branches: Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break and fall, potentially damaging your home or power lines. Carefully inspect trees and shrubs for damage.
    • Pro Tip: When removing broken branches, make clean cuts to promote healing and prevent further damage to the tree.
  • Leaning Trees: If you notice any trees leaning precariously, contact a tree service professional for assessment and removal.
    • Pro Tip: Document any leaning trees with photos to track their condition over time, even if they don’t seem immediately dangerous.

4. Driveway and Walkways

  • Clear Snow and Ice: Promptly remove snow and ice to prevent slips and falls. Use salt or sand to improve traction.
    • Pro Tip: Shovel snow in layers to avoid overexertion and potential injury. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated.
  • Damage: Check for cracks or heaving in paved surfaces, which can be caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
    • Pro Tip: Fill any cracks with sealant in the spring to prevent further damage from water seeping in and freezing.

5. Utilities

  • Power Outages: If you experience a power outage, report it to your utility company and take steps to stay warm and safe.
    • Pro Tip: Keep a battery-powered radio or weather alert device handy to stay informed about outage updates and weather conditions.
  • Gas Leaks: Be alert for the smell of gas and evacuate your home immediately if you suspect a leak. Contact your gas company from a safe location.
    • Pro Tip: Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home to alert you to potential gas leaks or other combustion hazards.

6. Interior

  • Ceiling Stains: Look for water stains on ceilings, which may indicate a roof leak.
    • Pro Tip: If you find a leak, place a bucket underneath to catch dripping water and prevent further damage, then contact a roofing professional.
  • Frozen Pipes: If you suspect frozen pipes, take steps to thaw them slowly to prevent bursting.
    • Pro Tip: Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes, especially in areas prone to freezing.

7. Emergency Preparedness

  • Restock Supplies: Replenish your emergency kit with fresh batteries, food, water, and any other essentials.
    • Pro Tip: Include a hand-crank weather radio in your kit to stay informed even if you lose power.
  • Review Your Plan: Take this opportunity to review your family’s emergency plan and make any necessary updates.
    • Pro Tip: Practice your emergency plan with your family so everyone knows what to do in case of another storm or other emergency.