Spring is a season of renewal, but it also brings risks like fluctuating temperatures, melting snow, and increased moisture. To help both homeowners and business owners prepare, we’ve partnered with our disaster recovery specialists, Dryco Restoration Services, to create this Essential Spring Maintenance Checklist.
PREVENTING FROZEN PIPES
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Spring seems to sneak up on us every year! And the freeze-thaw cycle we experience continues wreaking havoc on all sorts of things. Remain vigilant and take preventive action to save you from costly water damage.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
- Keep Vulnerable Pipes Insulated
Protect pipes in basements, attics, exterior walls, and garages the same way you did all winter. Wrap them in foam pipe insulation or heat tape. - Seal Leaks & Drafts
Prevent cold air from entering by sealing cracks and opening around windows, doors, crawl spaces and foundation walls. - Keep Water Flowing
Dripping faucets during extreme cold allow for reduced pressure buildup. Additionally, this decreases the chance of pipes freezing. - Maintain Adequate Temps
Keep thermostats at or above 50℉, even if you’re away. Consider setting space heaters with proper safety features to be set on timers in unheated areas prone to freezing temps. - Monitor Pipe Conditions
Smart monitoring systems can alert you to freezing risks before pipes burst.
Signs of Frozen Pipes
- No water flow or reduced flow coming out of faucets
- Frost or condensation on exposed pipes
- Unusual odors from drains – indicating a possible blockage allowing gases to enter your home or business
What To Do??
- Turn on the Faucets
Encourage water flow throughout the system by cracking each faucet just enough to allow water to begin dripping. Alleviate pressure with a steady drip of water if a blockage is present . - Apply Heat to Affected Pipes
Using a hair drying, space heater, or even warm towels, introduce gentle heat to the frozen pipes. Avoid using common heat guns, as they often reach temperatures high enough to start fires. - Heat Pipes to Remove Ice
Keep applying heat to ensure all ice is melted. - Check for Leaks
Frozen water expands, potentially cracking pipes. Inspect the pipes for leaks and shut off the main water supply immediately if any are found. Pay special attention to all frozen joints, bends, and elbows.
Long Term Preventive Measures
- Drain and purge outdoor plumbing before winter (hose bibs, sprinkler systems, etc)
- Maintain fire suppression systems and ensure pipes in unheated areas are properly winterized
- Install an automatic shut-off system to detect excessive water flow in case of burst pipes
- Keep detailed maintenance records to track and improve prevention efforts
Ice Dams: A Hidden Threat
Ice dams occur when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, trapping water that can seep under shingles and cause interior damage.
Signs of Ice Dams:
- Large icicles forming along the roof’s edge.
- Snow buildup on the roof, especially in valleys and near gutters.
- Water stains on ceilings and walls, indicating leaks.
Prevention Tips:
- Use a roof rake to clear snow and reduce the amount of meltwater.
- Ensure your attic is properly insulated to minimize heat loss.
- Install de-icing cables as a long-term solution.
If you spot an ice dam, professional removal is recommended to prevent further damage.
Snowmelt & Basement Flooding
The Northland experiences heavy snowfall, and as temperatures rise, melting snow can lead to flooding around foundations. This is especially concerning when combined with spring rains and frozen ground, which limit water absorption.
Common Issues Caused by Snowmelt:
- Basement Flooding & Sump Pump Backups – High water levels can overwhelm drainage systems. Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly and consider a battery backup system.
- Foundation Cracks & Leaks – Water seeping into foundation cracks can cause structural damage over time.
Flood Damage Risks – Standard homeowners policies often exclude flood damage. Consider adding flood insurance for better protection.
Indoor Maintenance
- Inspect extension cords for cracks and replace damaged ones.
- Ensure fire extinguishers are accessible, serviced, and up to date.
- Schedule a professional HVAC inspection:
- Clean and replace air filters
- Check for leaks and ensure proper airflow
- Inspect and clean ducts/vents
- Check first aid kits; ensure they are visible and labeled.
- Test emergency lighting and exit signs.
- Keep exit pathways clear and accessible.
Business-Specific Indoor Tasks:
- Arrange a professional inspection & cleaning of sprinkler and/or Ansul systems.
- Verify MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) are updated and in their proper locations.
- Perform preventive equipment maintenance and check for wear-and-tear.
- Ensure safety guards and protective features on equipment are installed and functioning.
Exterior Maintenance
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup and leaks.
- Conduct an exterior inspection of the building for weathering, cracks, and potential leaks.
- Remove debris from around buildings to reduce fire hazards.
Business-Specific Outdoor Tasks:
- Schedule parking lot maintenance and pothole repairs.
- Arrange for a professional roof inspection to identify damage and needed repairs.
- Have underground sprinkler systems inspected for proper function.
- Mark smoking areas clearly. Clean them regularly, and set at a safe distance from the building.
Stay Ahead of Spring Challenges
By taking proactive measures now, you can prevent costly repairs and maintain a safe environment in your home or business. If you need assistance with Inspections, water damage mitigation, or disaster recovery, Dryco Restoration Services and Reliable Agency, Inc. are here to help! With over 65 years of combined experience working with Northland home and business owners, you can trust that we have your best interests in mind.
Dryco Restorations Services serves the greater Western Lake Superior region including the Arrowhead region of Minnesota and NW Wisconsin and beyond. Contact Dryco Restoration Services at (218) 264-4619 or CLICK to contact them by email.
Reliable Agency, Inc. has offices in Cloquet, Hermantown, and Superior and works with clients all across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Contact Reliable Agency at (218) 879-4663 or CLICK to contact them by email.
