With the colder months coming we should
think of ways to prepare our houses to meet winter. We not only
have to think of the colder weather but the effects of ice, snow
and other elements on the structure.
Something as simple as caulking around windows,
doors, trim, and gaps in siding can cut down on drafts and water
infiltration. Putties are available for larger holes and exterior
wall penetrations such as plumbing and electrical lines.
If you have an asphalt driveway it is recommended
that you seal it before the ground freezes. If not, water may infiltrate
small cracks, freeze, expand and cause greater damage. For larger
cracks a thick sealant in a caulking tube should be used.
Cracks in concrete, brick or block should
also be filled or sealed to prevent further damage. This includes
sidewalks, foundations, driveways, veneers, chimneys and chimney
caps. Small cracks in concrete can be filled with a polyurethane
caulk or a masonry sealer. Larger cracks may be filled with hydraulic
cement. This is waterproof cement that will create a permanent bond.
There are hydraulic cements available for coating concrete such
as a concrete cap on a chimney. This prevents water from being absorbed
into the concrete that will reduce the chance of freezing and cracking.
Another common problem associated with winter
in colder climates is ice damming. This situation can occur in several
areas. Ice damming occurs where ice is allowed to build up, and
under force pushes against or under another area. Gutters are probably
the most common place where this occurs. Snow melts from the roof
and freezes in the gutter. As the ice mounds in the gutter the ice
may push under the shingles and onto the roof sheathing (plywood,
OSB. etc.) and remain there until it melts. This can cause a leak
in your ceiling or soffit overhang. If this condition is allowed
to continue rot can occur to the sheathing, frame, fascia and wooden
soffit. There are preventative steps that can be taken.
Drip edge is probably the easiest
and least expensive. F-Style Drip edge is a metal strip that comes
pre-bent in 10-12' sections. It goes under the shingles about 2",
overhangs the edge of the roof into the gutter about 3/4" and
comes down over the fascia about 1" and has a lip for a positive
run off. This creates a seal to the edge of the roof and greatly
reduces the chance
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