Winter in Dover, NH, is often harsh. Shoveling driveways and warming up the car are always part of the deal, but dealing with unexpected damage to your home shouldn’t have to be. At Gateway Property & Casualty, we spend a lot of time each fall reminding homeowners that the cold months test a house in ways summer never does. A little attention now can save a lot of stress later.
Ice Dams Can Be a Serious Problem
Ice dams form when snow melts on a warm roof, runs down, and refreezes at the eaves. It sounds minor until water starts backing up under the shingles. Keeping gutters clear and maintaining solid attic insulation goes a long way toward preventing this before it starts.
Pipes Can and Will Freeze
A pipe in an uninsulated basement or crawl space can freeze and crack faster than most people expect, especially during a hard, cold snap. Letting a faucet drip, sealing up drafts, and wrapping exposed pipes are small steps that can make a real difference. It only takes one burst pipe to cause substantial damage.
Storms Often Cause Serious Issues
Nor’easters aren’t rare around here, and they don’t always give much warning. Trim back tree limbs hanging over the roof, bring in anything in the yard that could blow around, and have a plan ready in case the power goes out for a while. It happens often in winter, and being prepared is simply smart planning.
None of this makes winter easy, but it does make it more manageable. Gateway Property & Casualty has been serving Dover, NH, homeowners for years, and we’re always glad to talk through your home insurance questions. Reach out anytime. We’re happy to help.
