In addition to depositing snow, Minnesota winter storms can affect your home exterior. When you know what a snow storm can do, it’s easier to find its effects and get them fixed. Below are six possible signs of Minnesota winter storm damage.
Types of Home Damage Caused by Winter Storms
Winter storms can bring bigger challenges than snow for homeowners. Strong winds, freezing temperatures, and winter precipitation can cause both immediate and long-term winter storm damage to property. For instance, winter winds can blow off gutters or shingles which leads to water damage indoors, whilst extended periods of extreme cold can weaken foundations and other structural elements of the home. Homeowners should therefore take a proactive approach to winter weatherproofing in order to stay ahead of winter storm damage before it happens.
1. Strong winds may loosen roof shingles.
During strong winter storms, roof shingles can become loose and cause roof damage. It is important to regularly inspect your roof throughout the winter to make sure it stays in good condition. Check for any damaged shingles, broken tiles or missing pieces that may have been caused by bad weather conditions. If needed, repairs should be made right away in order to prevent future roof storm damage due to loosened shingles. Taking precautionary steps such as these can help keep your roof safe from further harm during the winter months.
2. Strong winds might also cause damage to siding or windows.
Strong winds also have the potential to cause a lot of siding storm damage. If winds are strong enough they can pick up rocks, sticks, or other small items and bombard your siding or windows with them. Taking preventive measures is the best way to avoid siding storm damage. Ensure that siding is secured properly and follow general safety guidelines such as boarding up or taping windows in case of extreme weather. Acting proactively can help protect you and your home from siding storm damage caused by howling winds.
3. Snow or ice could sneak inside holes.
Snow and ice can cause many problems for homeowners during the winter. They can get inside the holes of windows, doors and other fixtures, which can lead to a range of issues from a lack of insulation to major structural damage. That’s why it’s important to check all openings are sealed tight every year so snow and ice don’t find their way into your home.
4. Fallen tree branches could cause roof or siding damage.
During windy winter storms, tree branches can be dislodged and come crashing down onto your roof or scrape against the siding. To avoid tree damage to your property, it’s important to monitor tree health throughout the year and inspect for any weak points that could break off during a storm. Taking preventative measures will give you peace of mind in knowing that your home is safe underneath the cozy tree canopy.
5. Ice dams could cause roof damage.
During ice storms, ice dams can form, preventing water from running off the roof and pushing it underneath nearby shingles. This can lead to major damage to your home if left unchecked. Fortunately, ice dams can be prevented with proper insulation and ventilation for the attic, as well as regular cleaning of debris from the gutters.
What You Can Do To Prepare for Winter Storms
Preparing your home ahead of time for winter weather can end up being the difference between a safe, secure home, and an uncomfortable disaster. Take steps such as keeping your tree branches trimmed and away from your house, fixing weaknesses in your roof and siding, and ensuring that all gutters are clear of debris so that water, snow and ice melt have somewhere to go instead of sticking around and forming ice dams. By taking these actions now, you can prepare for inclement winter weather and protect your home from potential damage.
What To Do If Your Home Has Winter Storm Damage
If a winter storm does leave a mark on your home, take action. When you can, it’s wise to address issues while they are relatively small. That way, you can help keep them from getting worse. Ask a trusted local company to carry out an inspection. Look for a company with an established track record that will provide skilled workmanship.
Minnesota Exteriors has been helping Minnesotans with their homes for seventy years. That’s a lot of winters. We understand exactly what a Minnesota winter can do – and how to fix it. We also offer a Lifetime Workmanship Warranty on installations. When you call us, you can rest assured you will receive quality work and sincere customer service.
We hope you have an enjoyable winter, but if a winter storm does affect your home contact us for a free, no hassle, no obligation storm damage inspection. We have the experience to take care of your storm damage. Whether you live in Edina or Plymouth or the Twin Cities, we want you to feel secure and happy in your home no matter the season.