Brace for the Cold: Preparing for New Hampshire’s Upcoming Cold Snap

As we enter the new year, winter is firmly making its presence known in the Granite State with the usual unpredictable “wintah”, cold snap. WMUR forecasts a colder air mass arriving in early January, with temperatures dipping into the teens and 20s—especially over the weekend. While we may not face the extreme Arctic blast predicted for parts of the Midwest and Southeast, it’s still important to prepare for a chilly stretch to prevent property damage. Water-related property damage in the winter months is very common because of frozen pipes, roof damage and ice dams. At PuroClean of Strafford County, we know PREPARATION is key to minimizing property damage of all types throughout New Hampshire.

Winter Storm Impacts in New Hampshire

A winter storm in New Hampshire can bring:

• Heavy Snowfall: Making travel perilous and often leading to school or business closures.
• Power Outages: Wet, heavy snow can snap tree limbs that take down power lines.
• Travel Disruptions: Icy, snow-covered roads can cause significant delays.
• Coastal Flooding: Storm surges and high tides pose flooding risks to coastal communities.
• Roof Collapses: Heavy snow can strain rooftops, risking structural failures.
• Extreme Cold: Low temperatures can exacerbate other hazards and make outdoor activities dangerous.

Northern and mountainous areas may see more severe conditions, but southern and central regions—such as Strafford, Dover, Concord, Rochester, Laconia, Nottingham, New Durham, Derry, Nashua, and throughout the Lakes Region—are no strangers to intense winter storms.

Key Preparation Tips

1. Heat Your Home Safely
   • Keep flammable items at least three feet away from space heaters, furnaces, and other heat sources.
   • Turn off space heaters before leaving the room or going to bed.
   • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries if needed.
   • Never use generators indoors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
2. Prevent Frozen Pipes
   • Insulate exposed pipes and seal windows to keep warm air inside.
   • If pipes run behind cabinets, open the doors to allow heat to circulate.
   • Let faucets drip in very cold conditions to reduce the risk of freezing.
3. Winterize Your Space
   • Check doors and windows for drafts; use weatherstripping or caulk as needed to keep the cold out.
   • Set your thermostat lower at night or when you’re away—but not so low that pipes freeze.

Common Winter Damage Concerns

1. Frozen Pipes and Water Damage
   • Why It Happens: Prolonged subfreezing temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst.
   • Prevention: Insulate exposed pipes and keep your thermostat at or above 55°F—even if you’re out of town.
2. Ice Dams
   • Why It Happens: Heat from inside your home melts roof snow, which refreezes at the eaves and pushes water beneath the shingles.
   • Prevention: Ensure your attic is well-insulated and ventilated. Remove heavy snow from your roof with a roof rake.
3. Snow and Roof Collapses
   • Why It Happens: Significant snow accumulation can strain the roof, causing leaks or structural failures.
   • Prevention: Clear snow routinely and schedule annual inspections to catch weaknesses early.
4. Wind Damage
   • Why It Happens: Strong winter winds can loosen roofing or siding and knock over trees and power lines.
   • Prevention: Secure outdoor items, trim overhanging branches, and confirm your roof and siding are in good shape.
5. Fire Hazards from Heating Systems
   • Why It Happens: Improperly used space heaters, fireplaces, and stoves, as well as creosote in chimneys, can ignite fires.
   • Prevention: Clean chimneys annually, maintain heating equipment, and use space heaters with automatic shut-off features.
6. Mold Growth from Snow Melt
   • Why It Happens: Melting snow can seep into basements and crawl spaces, creating damp conditions for mold to thrive.
   • Prevention: Maintain proper outdoor drainage, keep gutters clear, and use dehumidifiers in high-moisture areas.

Property Damage Risks: Frozen Pipes

When pipes freeze, they pose several serious risks:

• Burst Pipes: Freezing water expands and can rupture the pipe, leading to flooding.
• Water Damage: Escaping water damages drywall, insulation, floors, and personal belongings.
• Structural Damage: Water can seep into the foundation and framing, compromising a home’s integrity.
• Mold and Mildew: Persistent moisture encourages mold growth, which can trigger respiratory issues.
• Increased Repair Costs: Delays in addressing a frozen pipe can drive up repair, restoration, and remediation expenses.

What To Do in Case of Property Damage

1. Prioritize Safety
   • Fire: Evacuate immediately and call 911.
   • Water: Shut off the main water valve and beware of electrical hazards.
   • Storm: Avoid unstable structures or downed power lines.
2. Document the Damage
   • Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas.
   • Keep a list of damaged items for insurance purposes.
3. Notify Your Insurance Provider
   • Start the claims process right away.
   • Provide all documentation and follow their guidance.
4. Prevent Further Damage
   • Cover leaks or broken windows with tarps or boards.
   • Mop up standing water if safe and move valuables to a secure area.
5. Contact PuroClean of Strafford County
   • We’re available 24/7 at (603) 664-3727, through Facebook, or via our online contact form.
     • We care about your well-being therefore we have prepared an emergency preparedness document to help you in the case of an unexpected emergency. Download your EPP today!

What to Expect When You Call PuroClean

Our Commitment to You

We understand the emotional and financial toll that property damage can take. Our mission is to restore your home or business as quickly and safely as possible so you can return to normal life.

Contact us 24/7 at (603) 664-3727 for emergency services or visit our Contact Page.

Before We Arrive

• Address the Source: If it’s water damage, contact a plumber; for fire damage, ensure the area is cleared by the fire department; for storm damage, secure exposed areas as best you can.
• Document Everything: Take photos or videos for insurance.

When We Arrive

• Initial Assessment: We evaluate the extent of the damage with safety as our primary concern.
• Setup of Equipment: We use air movers, dehumidifiers, and other tools to dry and restore your property. These may be noisy but are essential for an efficient recovery.
• Minimizing Disturbances: We aim to restore your home or business with as little disruption as possible.

Note: Power outages can delay certain mitigation services.

Contact PuroClean for Professional Restoration Services

For fire, water, and mold restoration services in New Hampshire and Southern Maine, call (603) 664-3727. We’re an IICRC-certified company and invest in ongoing training, so our team can handle fire damage, water loss, sewer backflows, and mold contamination with enhanced competence. Choose PuroClean for quality remediation services.

Connect with us on social media for more tips and updates:

Blog

YouTube

Facebook

Google Reviews