| 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. |
