How to Prevent Winter Water Damage

Stay Ahead of Winter Water Damage

Winter in and around Matawan, NJ, can be tough on homes and businesses. Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and high winds increase the risk of water damage, burst pipes, ice dams, and basement flooding. When snow accumulates and begins to melt, water intrusion can affect exterior walls, attics, basements, and roofs, leading to structural issues and costly repairs.

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. This guide covers the most common winter water damage risks and offers quick tips for preventing it before it leads to standing water, mold, or insurance claims.

Common Causes of Winter Water Damage & Prevention Tips

1. Burst and Frozen Pipes

When the temperature drops below freezing (usually around 20°F), pipes in unheated areas—like basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls—can freeze. As water expands, it creates pressure that may cause a burst pipe, flooding and severe damage.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Never thaw frozen pipes with a blow torch or other type of open flame. The pipe could conduct the heat and ignite the wall structure inside the wall space. (See more winter fire safety tips.)
• Insulate exposed pipes in cold areas.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving.
• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature day and night.
• Open cabinet doors to prevent heat loss around pipes.
• If traveling, keep your home thermostat above 55°F and shut off the main water supply.
• Learn a lot more about frozen pipes and how to defrost them.

2. Ice Dams and Roof Damage

Ice dams form when melted snow refreezes and “dams” the water behind it. This ice buildup prevents water from draining correctly. As the snow melts and drains down the roof, it refreezes near the eaves, forming a growing ice dam. If left unaddressed, ice dams can lead to roof leaks, water intrusion, and structural problems. 

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Pull down snow with a roof rake before ice builds up. Be careful not to damage your shingles with the rake.
• Improve attic insulation so the roof maintains an even roof temperature.
• Direct water from gutters and downspouts away from your home.
• For added protection, install an ice and water shield under your roof shingles.

3. Basement Flooding from Snowmelt and Heavy Rainfall

During winter months, snowmelt and heavy rainfall can overwhelm your drainage systems, which can cause water pools around foundations. Without proper drainage, this can lead to a flooded basement and foundation cracks.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Ensure your yard is graded to direct water away from the foundation.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear of other debris to prevent blockages.
• Use a sump pump with a battery backup. A sump pump with a water alarm can also warn you about potential floods.
• Seal foundation cracks to prevent water intrusion.

4. Clogged Gutters and Ice Accumulation

Clogged gutters, filled with leaves, ice, and other debris, can prevent proper drainage and allow water to seep into walls, ceilings, and foundations.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Clean gutters in late fall after the leaves have fallen.
• Install gutter guards to keep out debris.
• Make sure downspouts extend at least five feet from the foundation.

5. Sump Pump Failures

A frozen discharge line can cause a sump pump backup, increasing the risk of standing water and basement floods.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Before winter, test your sump pump to make sure it works properly.
• Keep the discharge line clear and direct water away from your house.
• Insulate or bury the discharge pipe to prevent freezing.

6. Window and Door Leaks

Winter storms, wind and freezing temperatures can shrink the seals around windows and doors, allowing water to seep in, potentially causing soggy drywall, floor damage, and issues with window and door frames.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps.

7. HVAC and Water Heater Leaks

Winter puts added strain on water heaters and HVAC systems, increasing the risk of leaks. 

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Inspect your heater. Look for leaks, rust, or corrosion.
• Flush the system annually to remove sediment buildup.
• Keep HVAC drain lines clear to prevent backups.
• Get more tips to prevent HVAC water damage.

8. Septic System Backups

Cold weather can cause septic lines to freeze, leading to sewage backups and water damage inside your home.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Use septic-safe additives to help prevent freezing.
• Avoid parking vehicles or piling snow over the septic system.

9. Mold Growth from Winter Moisture

Moisture from water leaks, flooding or condensation can lead to mold growth. Mold can spread rapidly and cause structural issues and health problems.

✅ Prevention Tips:

• Fix water leaks immediately.
• Maintain indoor humidity levels between 40% and 55%.
• Improve ventilation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas.

Other Winter Water Damage Safety Tips

• Install water leak detectors in areas prone to leaks, like near sump pumps, water-bearing fixtures, and behind or beneath pipes.
• Check water supply lines annually for leaks. Inspect your water heater, washing machine, refrigerator ice maker, and other appliances that could leak.
• Consider adding sewage backup coverage to your homeowner’s insurance since it’s often not included. Heavy rain and melting snow can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to water or sewage backups in your home.
• Disconnect outdoor hoses when not in use to prevent freezing and backflow issues.
• Clear snow away from your home’s foundation to reduce the risk of water seepage as it melts.
• If you are leaving for the winter, winterize your home before you go.

Professional Water Damage Restoration Near Matawan, NJ

When winter water damage strikes, quick action is essential. Whether it’s damage from frozen pipes, ice dams, or basement flooding, PuroClean of Matawan is here 24/7. Our licensed and trained technicians respond quickly to minimize damage and restore your home or business.

Don’t wait—contact PuroClean now for fast, professional water damage restoration and mold removal. Serving Matawan, NJ and surrounding areas. 📞 Call today (732) 351-2442