Harsh winter weather is great at highlighting problems you likely didn’t know you had. As ice and snow can wreak havoc on your home, it’s important to identify the missteps that can cost you hundreds-if not thousands- of dollars in damage and repairs. Therefore, in addition to securing your home with a custom-tailored MO Home Insurance policy, heed the following advice.
Mistake #1: Not draining your outdoor water faucets.
Frozen water, even a little bit, has the potential to cause significant damage. Rather than wait for your pipes to freeze and burst, detach the hose from the outdoor faucet, drain it, then use a simple protector to prevent cold air from entering your pipes. The basic ones are about $2 and the pricier options are less than $10.
Mistake #2: Not preventing or getting rid of icicles.
Icicles are a clear sign that you’ve got an ice dam, which is exactly what it sounds like: a buildup of ice on your gutter or roof that prevents melting snow and ice from flowing through your gutters. That’s really bad news because these icy blocks can lead to expensive roofing repairs, says House Logic. To prevent them, insulate your attic thoroughly (at least 14 inches, more in colder climates) to prevent ice buildup. Another option is heated gutter cables which run about $50-150 each and can be used as a short-term solution for freeze-prone pipes.
Mistake #3: Not clearing out your gutters.
While it might be tempting to opt for staying inside during the bitter cold, failing to unclog your gutters can lead to improper water drainage. Instead of flowing out to the street and away from your home, water will seep back into your foundation- which is never a cheap fix. Foundation patching can cost around $3,000 while an entire foundation rebuild can set you back over $30,000!
Mistake #4: Allowing cold air to get in.
A simple tube of caulking can prevent leaks of cold air into your home. It’s available in hundreds of colors to match whatever materials you are trying to seal. Consider caulking around the dryer vents, baseboards, window sills, and any other potential entry points.
About Sine Insurance Group
At Sine Insurance Group, we strive to protect your prized possession with the proper coverage to meet your specific needs. Our commitment to excellence and our superior customer service has allowed us to serve St. Louis and the surrounding areas for the last 25 years. For more information on our products and services, call us today at (855) 700-0889.