As bone-chilling weather grips Chicagoland, many homeowners find themselves facing the oft-overpriced aftermath of winter-related water damage. 

From burst pipes to ice dams, the havoc wreaked by snow, ice, and high winds can leave homes in a state of disrepair. Dealing with the mess and hassle can be an overwhelming prospect for home and business owners, but the experienced and compassionate team at PuroClean of Evanston is here to help you navigate this complex process. 

Let’s explore some common wintertime property damage issues, what to watch out for, and steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your property throughout this unpredictable season.

The Usual Suspects

Chicago-area residents are quite familiar with the hazards of prolonged freezing temperatures. We’re no strangers to burst pipes, ice dams, roof leaks, and snow-laden tree branches causing destruction, costly repairs, and unnecessary stress headaches. 

Protecting your pipes and plumbing while winter rages outside is crucial to avoid serious problems that can quickly get expensive to fix. According to the Insurance Information Institute, billions of dollars worth of insured losses are directly caused by meltwater and the aftermath of brutally cold weather.

It’s also essential to winter-proof your roof before the cold season arrives and perform regular inspections and maintenance during the warmer months to help ensure you’re prepared for the rough stuff. 

Preventing the formation of ice dams and icicles can be difficult, but it’s well worth the effort. Ice build-up on your roof or clogging up your gutters can lead to massive water intrusion and structural damage, ruined furniture, warped floors, and even foundation issues. 

The experts at This Old House also recommend a simple and inexpensive method for de-icing and getting water flowing correctly — fill pantyhose with a calcium chloride ice melter, use a long-handled garden rake to position it (please do not climb on your icy roof), and let the magic of chemistry do the hard work for you. 

Taking Action

Spotting the signs of water damage isn’t always easy, but the quicker you discover it, the less harm it can cause. Keep your eyes open for:

At the first hint of an issue, locate the source to prevent further moisture from infiltrating your residence or business and reach out immediately to the professional restoration specialists at PuroClean of Evanston. 

Harmful mold can take root just 24-48 hours after a flooding event, so it’s imperative that you act fast to document the damage for your insurance provider and begin removing wet items immediately. Prioritize safety by wearing protective gear like boots and gloves, and discard items like wet drywall, broken appliances, and contaminated food, medicine, and toiletries. 

A trained remediation authority can help property owners tackle winter-related devastation with the latest in industry-approved techniques, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to bring your living or working environment back to normal. 

Our project managers deliver compassionate, comprehensive service and education as well as guidance on filing your insurance claim and preventative measures for protecting your home or business. 

Attempting do-it-yourself water removal or repairs can put your safety, health, and possessions at risk. Look for a company that’s certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC). This independent body establishes standards and administers credentials like the Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) designation, providing the expertise you need to move on from this type of disaster. 

Rebuild with Confidence

Winter in Chicagoland comes with a unique set of challenges. PuroClean of Evanston’s Paramedics of Property Damage™ understand the specific risks associated with extreme temperature changes, heavy snowfall, and freezing conditions. We offer tailored, customized solutions that address every aspect of seasonal water damage in the Chicagoland area.

Thawing out after wild winter weather can bring an array of unexpected (and potentially unpleasant) surprises that require a strategic approach and the assistance of a professionally trained team. 

Whether you’re facing roof failure, fractured pipes, flooding, mold, or smoke damage, we’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and handle any emergency that arises. Our dedication to your complete satisfaction is unparalleled.

Taking action quickly can help you avoid a bigger disaster in the future. Preserve your sanity and your property by partnering with PuroClean of Evanston — click or call today!