WASHINGTON D.C. – A snow covered neighborhood can be picturesque but when the snow melts, homeowners can be in for an expensive surprise.
“The primary concern is always moisture intrusion,” said Glenford Blanc of Pro-Spex Home Inspections.
After the snow falls, ice dams can form along the roof of a home. Ice dams prevent water from draining off the roof and collecting water can leave damage behind. Most of the damage can be found on the edge of the roof, where it meets the gutter.
If you forgot to clean your gutters before the snow melted, Blanc says you should take a look at the area of the roof where the gutters are attached. Many times the water, unable to drain, will leave water logged fascia boards behind. The water could result in those boards rotting and ultimately needing to be replaced according to Blanc.
If you have water issues in your basement, Blanc says those can also be caused by clogged gutters and downspouts which prevent the water from draining proper.
It is also a good idea to look at your deck, if you have one. Blanc says melting snow can leave water stains along the rear wall of the house and in the basement. Also, if snow was piled up on the deck when it melted it may have seeped inside causing damage to the base of door.
If you find any damage, Blanc says you need to get to work on it right away.
“Address the point of entry and get it dried as quickly as possible,” Blanc says.
If it isn’t dried in time, he says wood rot and termite damage can follow.
Also, he says now is the time to clean your gutters and keep them clean. It’s also important to walk around the home and caulk areas where water may seep in.
Water can be a homeowners best friend or worst enemy.
“If you don’t control it, it can slowly take your house apart.”
