Although Atlanta is known for its mild winters, freezing temperatures can still make an appearance, bringing unique challenges to homes and businesses. At TerraPro Group, a water, fire, mold, and storm restoration company in Atlanta, we’ve seen how unpreparedness can lead to costly damage. Here are our top tips for preparing your property and keeping your family safe during freezing temperatures.
1. Protect Your Pipes
Risks: Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage and potential mold issues.
Preparation Tips:
- Insulate Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation on exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
- Let Faucets Drip: Running water is less likely to freeze. Let your faucets drip during extremely cold weather.
- Seal Gaps: Check for gaps or cracks near pipes and seal them to prevent cold air from coming in.
- Know How to Shut Off Water: In case of a pipe burst, knowing where your main water shut-off valve is can save you from extensive damage.
2. Prepare Your Heating System
Risks: A malfunctioning heating system can leave your home uncomfortably cold and increase the risk of frozen pipes.
Preparation Tips:
- Service Your HVAC System: Have your heating system inspected and serviced annually.
- Check Your Filters: Clean or replace filters to ensure your system runs efficiently.
- Use Space Heaters Safely: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable items, and never leave them unattended.
3. Seal Your Home
Risks: Drafts and poor insulation can make your heating system work harder and increase energy bills.
Preparation Tips:
- Weatherstrip Doors and Windows: Prevent cold air from entering your home by adding weatherstripping.
- Insulate Your Attic: Ensure your attic has adequate insulation to prevent heat loss.
- Close Unused Rooms: Focus heating on occupied spaces by closing doors to unused rooms.
4. Prepare for Power Outages
Risks: Freezing temperatures can cause ice to accumulate on power lines, leading to outages.
Preparation Tips:
- Have Backup Heat Sources: Use a fireplace or portable propane heater, but ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Keep flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food on hand.
- Charge Devices: Fully charge phones and power banks before freezing weather arrives.
- Invest in a Generator: A generator can provide power to keep essential systems running during an outage.
5. Safeguard Your Roof and Gutters
Risks: Ice dams and snow accumulation can lead to roof leaks and water damage.
Preparation Tips:
- Clear Gutters: Remove leaves and debris to ensure water flows freely.
- Inspect Your Roof: Look for missing shingles or damage that could let water in.
- Use a Roof Rake: Safely remove snow buildup from your roof if necessary.
6. Have a Restoration Plan in Place
Despite all precautions, freezing temperatures can still cause damage. That’s where TerraPro Group comes in. From water damage caused by burst pipes to mold remediation after leaks, we provide expert restoration services to help you recover quickly.
Contact TerraPro Group Today: Our team is available 24/7 to assist with all your restoration needs, ensuring your home or business is back to normal in no time.
Conclusion
Freezing temperatures in Atlanta don’t have to catch you off guard. By following these preparation tips, you can protect your property and stay safe during the coldest days of the year. Trust TerraPro Group to be your partner in restoration and resilience.
Stay Warm and Stay Prepared with TerraPro Group!
