The Most Common Winter Home Disasters

Winters are brutal. Nothing is worse than getting stuck in a snow-induced traffic jam or going outside and feeling the cold wind hit your face. Winters can also cause severe damage to your home. This list of the most common winter home disasters will make you more aware of the potential hazards and how to protect your home from them.

Roofing Issues

Roofs and winters are not friends. Especially harsh winters can cause severe damage to roofs; if a large amount of heavy snow sits on a roof for an extended period of time, then it could cause roof leakage or even fall through. Make sure you know what to do if you do find yourself in the middle of a roof emergency. Try not to panic, and always have a professional’s number on hand should the situation arise.

Large Icicles

Icicles are beautiful to look at, but they can also be extremely hazardous. If an icicle becomes too large and heavy, it can come crashing down, potentially injuring someone or causing property damage. Clean your gutters regularly to ensure that your home stays icicle-free this winter. You should clean your gutters throughout the year to prevent backup and poor water flow anyway. If you’re cleaning out gutters during the winter, make sure you’re safe, and have someone nearby to spot you.

Space Heaters

People are always looking for ways to warm up during the winter, and sometimes a fuzzy blanket and an extra pair of socks just won’t cut it. A lot of people use space heaters to provide additional heat to smaller areas. Space heaters typically do their jobs well, but they can be very dangerous if you don’t use them properly. Don’t keep your space heater near flammable fabrics such as drapes or bedding, and never leave your space heater on when you’re not home. Space heaters can cause fires very easily, and that can devastate your entire holiday season.

This list of the most common winter home disasters will help make you a smarter homeowner this season. Winters are long, but they can seem even longer if you have to deal with home repairs. Avoid the hassle by consistently checking the status of your home during the winter. If you’re a prospective buyer, ask your Realtor if the home typically experiences issues during the winter. The last thing anyone wants is to purchase a home that will give you headaches over the holidays.