Water Damage

Water leaks from ice and snow are caused by interior heat from the house. Water from ice melting on the roof is trapped and creates an ice dam on the roof, gutters and downspouts. The water then takes the path of least resistance under the roof system, or sideways and through flashings, which were not designed for to handle this kind of moisture. When this happens, interior water damage can occur.

Some of us have either heard of (our tried ourselves) using a regular snow shovel to remove excessive snow from the top of our homes to prevent roof damage. This technique, however, has some pretty obvious drawbacks, and can cause its own damage to shingles. Some contractors may suggest that rock salt or calcium chloride be used to melt the ice and snow. Unfortunately, this may also damage shingles. In fact, many shingle manufacturers warn against this, and it may void your warranty.

Repairing Existing Roof Damage
If you notice leaks or water marks on the walls or ceiling of your home, the damage is already done. Some roof repair operations are relatively inexpensive; nationally, the cost for asphalt shingle roof repair is about $575. When ice damage is extensive enough to warrant roof replacement, Americans pay an average of around $6,000 to install a new asphalt roof.
 

1. Stay out of direct sunlight, and avoid strenuous activities.
2. Wear lightweight light colored loose-fitting clothing that permits sweat to evaporate.
3. Drink plenty of liquids such as water or fruit and vegetable juices to replace fluids lost by perspiring.
4. Avoid alcohol and beverages that have too much salt, since salt can complicate medical problems.
5. Do not use salt tablets unless advised to do so by your doctor.
6. Take frequent cool baths or showers; place cool wet towels on the body.
7. Above all, take the heat seriously, and don’t ignore danger signs like nausea, dizziness and fatigue; seek medical help at once.

Even those who are accustomed to the heat may find that advancing years and the effects of medical conditions can lessen their ability to cope. Anyone who does not have air conditioning should make alternative plans for when the heat gets to be too much. A visit at a friend’s or relative’s house for a few hours or for a day or two in the hottest weather may be the simplest alternative.

Other alternatives could include –

1. Visiting an air conditioned store or mall;
2. Visiting the local public library – not only relief from the heat, but a good time to catch up on magazines or books;
3. Spending part of the day at the local senior center, and having lunch there; and
4. Keeping in touch with friends and relatives, so that they will be available to help if needed.

If you have a senior friend or relative who does not have air conditioning, check with them often, and be prepared to offer whatever alternatives they might accept. Even a drive in an air conditioned car and a lunch or snack at a fast food place might be a welcome break. For some, a few hours a day in air conditioning can mean the difference between staying well and becoming ill from the heat. Don’t overlook seniors with medical conditions who may have difficulty leaving home; it is especially important to check on them regularly

Sump Pump Maintenance

People who have a sump pump in their home will tell you they could not do without one. Like many other home appliances, a sump pump requires maintenance. If you want to know how to clean and maintain your sump pump to ensure its long life, then you’ve come to the right place!

It is often recommended that you do not clean the sump pump yourself but leave that task to someone who is qualified. However, you can pour white vinegar through the unit which will help eliminate any build-up in the system. Sump pumps have screens or openings where the water enters the pump. These sometimes get clogged and require cleaning by a professional.

Some manufacturers recommend the sump pump be run and tested every two to three months and others recommend that a yearly cleaning program be completed before the rainy season hits. If you follow the maintenance guide given by the manufacturer, your sump pump should last a very long time.

Below are some tips regarding sump pump maintenance:

• fill the sump pit with water to make sure the pump is working properly.
• go outside to check that the pump is actually discharging water (sometimes the pump will run but it won’t pump any water out).
• check that the operation of the float is not restricted.
• clean the air hole in the discharge line.
• listen for any strange noises coming from the motor.
• replace the battery on the back-up sump pump every second or third year.

Advanced Sump Pump Maintenance

Sump Pump Maintenance Tasks
The main benefit of having a sump pump in your home is that it alleviates the worry of accidental water damage. As long as a sump pump is in good working order, you should feel well protected. That being said, there are several sump pump maintenance tasks that should be performed to ensure that the pump is able to effectively do its job.

After Heavy Rainfall
A build up of debris in your sump pump is one of the major causes of sump pump failure. It is important that you check your inlet suction screen to make sure that there is no blockage. This sump pump maintenance routine should be performed every few months and especially after heavy or persistent rainfall.

Check the Motor
Once annually, it is necessary to check on the effective operation of the sump pump’s motor by pouring water into the drain area of the pump. If the pump is working well, the motor will turn on just as the float rises with the water level. You should repeat this procedure for a few cycles. Keep track of when you last performed this task as it is a very important part of your sump pump maintenance program.

Check Float
Ensure that the float of your sump pump is able to freely move. If the float is obstructed, your pump may fail to start. This task does not have to be performed regularly, but you should get in the habit of doing it every few months.

Verify Oil Seal
If you spot an oily film on the surface of the water in your sump pump, verify the condition of the oil seal. The appearance of oil probably indicates a faulty oil seal which may cause the motor to burn out.

Visual Check
In general, a sump pump does not require extensive maintenance. Most homeowners find it beneficial to do a visual check on the pump every few months. Once annually, it is important that a more thorough sump pump maintenance routine be performed. On the rare occasion of persistent rainfall, your sump pump should be monitored more often to ensure its smooth operation.

Why Do I have Ice Dams?

Step 1
Open up your windows and doors and let the fresh, spring air and sunshine inside.
This will eliminate much of the stale, stuffy air and give your home new life.

Step 2
Clean window screens and windows to allow more light to shine into your home. This
will give your home a more open, airy feel to it.

Step 3
Vacuum your upholstery and draperies to remove any dust, pollen, or dander that
may have accumulated over the long winter. This can exacerbate spring time
allergies.

Step 4
Thoroughly clean your ceiling fans to remove any accumulated dust and debris that
can circulate around the room when you turn it on.

Step 5
Clean carpeting with an organic rug cleaner to remove any residual pet odors and
dust mites that can cause allergic reactions and make your home smell less fresh.

Step 6
Dust thoroughly to further reduce airborne allergens that may have accumulated
over the winter.

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