Winter May Be Over, But It Can Affect Your Home Well Into Spring

 

Spring is finally here, and winter weather and cooler temperatures are moving out for the season. However, the damaging effects of snow, ice, and wind can linger well into summer. As a homeowner, it’s in your best interest to tackle these issues now. Failure to make minor repairs as they are needed can result in a big repair bill down the road. Keep reading for information on parts of your home that you might want to inspect now that things are thawing out.

 

The Foundation

 

While your home’s foundation is required to be buried under what’s known as the frost line, things like erosion and poor planting of shrubs and trees can compromise this protective layer of soil. Heavy rains followed by days or weeks of subzero temperatures, snow, sleet, and other precipitation can leach into your home’s foundation, causing a cycle of freezing and thawing. This can lead to damage that can put your family's safety — not to mention your financial investment — at risk. This is not a do-it-yourself job, and you should leave the foundation service to trusted experts, which you can find via the Better Business Bureau.

 

A quick note here: If your home requires extensive repairs, you can make the process easier by moving large pieces of furniture and unnecessary belongings out. This is especially important if you have a basement since your repair professionals will need unrestricted access. In this case, look for a storage unit, which should cost you around $81 per month in the Ann Arbor area.

 

The Roof and Gutters

 

Just as ice can damage your foundation, so too can freezing temperatures take a toll on your roof. Likewise, clogged gutters can be ripped from your home when they are weighed down by heavy ice dams. If you have a ladder, you can visually inspect your roof for damage. Use house Logic’s checklist, which includes scanning for rust spots and cracked caulk, buckled and missing shingles, and worn rubber boots around ventilation pipes. You’ll also want to look out for moss and algae growing on the shingles. If you have a chimney, give it a glance as well to ensure there are no cracks in the crown, which can allow water to pour into your fireplace.

 

Similar to foundation repairs, major roof damage may require you to remove items from the home. And if you have a water leak, it’s also wise to have a mold and water mitigation company give you an estimate on repairs. The long-term consequences of living in a home with mold, according to EnviroMed, include frequent sinus infections, wheezing, watery eyes, and potentially serious neurological symptoms, including vertigo and migraines.

 

The Brick and Siding

 

Whether your home is brick or siding, its side- and front-facing exterior may have also sustained damage. Fortunately, brick repair is typically an easy fix and requires that you replace old mortar. This Old House notes that just $22, two days, and a few common tools can help you rectify cracked or crumbling joints. Siding may need to be sanded and repainted. While you are inspecting your brick or siding, also pay attention to the windows. If the caulk has dry-rotted or been otherwise compromised over the long winter, plan to scrape it away and replace it once the weather is consistently between 40 degrees and 80 degrees. If the thermometer stays on the low side, some silicone caulk may be applied in much cooler conditions.

 

Your home is your most substantial investment, and the time and money you spend fixing winter damage will help to ensure its value. Remember, everything you let slide now will only get worse when winter returns. And repairs will only get more expensive with each passing month.

 

How Can we Help You and your Real Estate Needs?  Tom Stachler has been a state of Michigan Licensed Broker for over 30 years.  Check out the Links on this website and let us know if we can help you in the Ann Arbor, Dexter, Saline, Ypsilanti, Chelsea or their surrounding communities for home purchase, listings, property marketing or general realty advice.