9 Tips to Prevent Winter Damage to Your New Hampshire Seasonal Homes
Posted by Carol Shepherd on Fri, Feb 17, 2012 @ 11:52 AM
New Hampshire seasonal homes are a great asset, providing a summer getaway or vacation retreat for their owners. But they can also be a liability if they are not properly maintained, especially during the New England winter months. Winter temperatures, snow and ice can be damaging to your seasonal home, but there are preventative steps you can take to ensure that your New Hampshire seasonal home remains damage-free this winter.
Here are 9 Tips to Prevent Winter Damage courtesy of MMG Insurance from their Fall 2011 Newsletter:
1. Maintain the heat between 55-60 degrees
2. Install a temperature monitor. A battery-powered monitor can notify you if the temperature falls below a safe level.
3. Make sure pipes are properly insulated. Extremely cold temperatures can freeze water in the pipes, which can cause a plethora of issues.
4. Drain water heater and pipes, if the home will be unoccupied for a longer period of time. Once everything is flushed, double check that the main water line to the property has been shut off.
5. Remove any fire hazards. Discard loose papers, old rags or chemicals. Turn off all utilities and unplug all appliances.
6. Inspect the roof and replace missing or broken shingles to prevent leaks.
7. Trim overhanging or dead branches. Weight from ice and snow can cause branches to snap and potentially result in damage to your property.
8. Remove snow from your roof and decks. If there is a heavy amount of snowfall, arrange to have the snow removed to prevent ice backup and snow load issues.
9. Check on your property periodically. If you are unable to do so yourself, ask a trusted neighbor or hire a property management company to check on your home.
Find more Tips for Snow and Ice Removal Safety.
Although this is not one of New Hampshire's harshest winters, drastic fluctuations in temperatures and a cycle of freezing and thawing is just as dangerous for an unoccupied residence. So keep your New Hampshire seasonal homes safe and ready for your return.
CG Shepherd Realty, LLC: Serving New Hampshire's Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region, Upper Valley, Eastman & Vermont's Real Estate Buying and Selling Needs.