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Types of Weather Damage that Occurs in Idaho Homes
There are plenty of reasons why Idaho is notable. From its picturesque landscapes to its friendly residents, many people love Idaho for a reason. In addition, many people applaud Idaho for its weather. You can experience all four seasons in Idaho instead of more temperate climates. However, there are downsides to this as well. For one, Idaho temperatures in the Treasure Valley — the area including Boise, Meridian, and Nampa — can go above 111° F in the summer to below freezing in the winter, according to the National Weather Service. Likewise, snowfall totals up to 40 inches in some winters, and wind can reach up to 50 mph during the spring.
This variable weather can be awe-inspiring for Idaho residents, but it can also certainly cause stress to homeowners who may be worried about the integrity of their homes. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common damage Idaho homeowners may prepare for and what to do if they need repair work.
Common Types of Weather Damage in Idaho
As mentioned, the Treasure Valley experiences a wide range of weather conditions. However, not all weather conditions may damage a home. Here are some of the most common types of damage a home may experience due to weather conditions.
Wind Damage
While Idaho may not be a tornado alley, the state does experience strong windstorms, especially in the spring. Powerful gusts can loosen or topple fences, dislodge roof shingles, and break or damage sliding doors. Windows and mailboxes risk cracking, shattering, or misalignment due to wind pressure and flying debris.
When wind damage strikes in areas around Boise, Meridian, and Nampa, Mr. Handyman is here to help. From expert fence repair to sliding door installation and repair, their skilled team can efficiently restore or replace affected structures. Mr. Handyman also offers professional window replacement services for homes with damaged windows, ensuring your home is secure and functional after any storm.
Snow and Ice Damage
As one of the most northern states in the United States, Idaho gets plenty of snow yearly. While Boise, Meridian, and Nampa and surrounding communities get comparatively less snow than other communities at higher elevations, snow can still cause pressure to build on house roof structures, causing leaks that damage attic insulation and roof support. Ice dams that build in clogged gutters due to trapped water can seep into walls and ceilings, leading to soggy drywall and compromised sister joints. Additionally, melting snow and ice can infiltrate crawl spaces, resulting in moisture damage and mold growth.
Mr. Handyman provides solutions to address these issues, keeping your home intact no matter how cold it gets or how much snow falls.
Rain, Water, and Flood Damage
According to the National Weather Service, the Treasure Valley has a semi-arid climate and only receives up to 11 inches of rain, primarily during the winter and spring. Still, this is enough water to damage homes, seeping into basements, attics, drywall, and crawl spaces. In addition, with the Boise River and canals that proliferate the Treasure Valley, plenty of water sources could risk flooding your home.
Each weather event can bring about different types of damage, but in general, if water enters your home due to rain, water, and flood damage, it can lead to mold growth and structural issues within the home, endangering its inhabitants. As such, it’s essential to work quickly if you know water is in your home, such as calling Mr. Handyman in Boise, Meridian, or Nampa for drywall and wood damage repair.
Seasonal Temperature Fluctuations
Idaho’s seasonal temperature fluctuations, especially the freezing and thawing cycles, can damage your home. Water trapped in porous materials like concrete or soffit and fascia can freeze and expand as temperatures drop, causing cracks and weakening the structure. Siding is also at risk of becoming brittle and damaged during these cycles, compromising your home’s exterior protection.
Additionally, freezing temperatures can cause water in pipes to expand, leading to bursts that result in significant water damage. This can affect plumbing systems and nearby building materials like drywall and flooring, creating costly repair needs.
Preventing Weather Damage in Idaho Homes
While you can’t prevent weather from happening, you can prevent potential damage from happening by preparing in the following ways:
Preparing for Windstorms
If you receive a windstorm advisory or warning, secure as many loose items around your house as possible. For example, stow away outdoor furniture and decor, such as patio chairs, tables, and grills, to prevent them from blowing around and potentially damaging your property.
Regularly inspect your home for wear and tear, especially your roof or fences. If you see any, reinforce or repair them as soon as possible. Mr. Handyman’s qualified professionals are always available to assist with the repair process throughout Boise, Meridian, and Nampa. This will keep your home intact and safe.
Protecting Against Snow and Ice
To protect your home against cold-weather damage, such as ice dams, take these precautions before and during the winter:
- Improve insulation: If you keep your home well-insulated, heat will be less likely to seep through your roof. As a result, snow won’t melt, causing ice dams to form.
- Enhance ventilation: Proper attic ventilation circulates cold air, helping maintain an even roof temperature and reducing the likelihood of ice buildup.
- Clear gutters: Regularly clean your gutters to prevent debris from trapping water and creating ice dams.
- Use roof rakes: After a heavy snowfall, remove excess snow from your roof to reduce the weight and minimize the risk of ice dams forming at the edges.
While ice dams are more likely to occur in homes following large snowstorms or especially freezing evenings, it’s best to winterize them yearly to prevent them.
Guarding Against Rain and Water Damage
If you don’t have proper drainage, rain and any kind of moisture will likely lead to some of the damage listed above. The best way you can ensure proper drainage is to:
- Clean your gutters: As mentioned above, dysfunctional or clogged gutters can cause water to pool and leak into your home.
- Ensure your roof slope drains well: If your roof causes water to pool in certain areas, it can cause undue pressure onto your home, leading to leaks.
- Waterproof crawl spaces and basements: With Mr. Handyman’s help, sealing cracks in walls and floors or installing a vapor barrier can ensure that water doesn’t damage your home’s structural integrity.
- Install a sump pump: If you have the funds to do so, investing in a sump pump can remove any moisture in areas of your home that are prone to flooding.
- Utilize sloped landscaping: Integrating a French drainage system can help direct water away from the home and protect it.
Staying on top of these tasks can certainly be a chore, but avoiding mold growth and other issues caused by excessive moisture is imperative. With the help of Mr. Handyman in any Boise, Meridian, and Nampa location, you’ll be able to keep your home dry, and damage-free with little to no inconveniences.
Managing Temperature Fluctuations
When temperatures rise or fall dramatically, the best way to protect your home is to insulate any exposed pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, causing costly water damage. With insulation, your home’s pipes will maintain a consistent temperature and won’t risk bursting.
In addition, inspect your siding for cracks or loose panels and make necessary repairs to prevent further damage from extreme temperatures. For concrete, seal cracks and apply a weather-resistant sealant to reduce water absorption and protect against freeze-thaw damage. Routine upkeep ensures these materials remain durable and resilient against seasonal stressors, safeguarding your home year-round.
Treating Weather Damage in Idaho Homes
Even with all the preparation in the world, accidents happen. Unfortunately, weather damage often occurs in the most inconvenient moments, and if it does occur, you may feel panicked and unsure of who to turn to or what to do. In these moments, you can turn to Mr. Handyman for any kind of weather damage — from broken sliding doors from an errant windstorm to leaks in your roof from rain damage.
Mr. Handyman: Your Go-To Idaho Weather Damage Expert
Whether you need help preparing your home for upcoming storms or dealing with damage from a recent storm, Mr. Handyman is here for you. Our professionals will happily answer any questions you have and come over to help as soon as possible. Contact us today, and we’ll schedule a consultation tailored to your needs!
FAQs About Idaho Weather Damage in the Home
How Do I Know If My Home Has Weather Damage?
You can identify weather damage by inspecting your home for visible issues, such as loose shingles, broken fences, water stains on ceilings, or cracks in your siding. It's also vital to check less obvious areas like your attic, crawl spaces, and basement for signs of leaks or mold growth.
Can Weather Damage Be Prevented?
While preventing weather-related damage is impossible, you can minimize risks by regularly maintaining your home, cleaning your gutters, inspecting your roof, and securing outdoor structures like fences and sheds. Proper insulation and drainage systems also help protect against extreme weather.
What Should I Do After a Storm Damages My Property?
After a storm, assess the damage to your home and document it with photos. Then, contact your insurance company if needed. For repairs, consult professionals like Mr. Handyman, who specialize in addressing weather-related damage.
How Can I Protect My Home From Ice Dams?
Proper roof insulation and ventilation can prevent ice dams. Properly clearing snow from your roof and using de-icing products on gutters can also help minimize the risk. If you see an ice dam start to form, use an ice dam machine to safely remove it without damaging your roof.
Why Is My Crawl Space or Basement Leaking After Heavy Rain?
Heavy rain can lead to water seeping into your crawl space or basement if your home's waterproofing or drainage system is inadequate. Installing sump pumps, sealing cracks, and maintaining gutters and downspouts are effective solutions.
Should I Repair Weather Damage Myself or Hire a Professional?
DIY solutions may be sufficient for minor issues like small cracks or replacing a few shingles. However, professionals like Mr. Handyman will complete your weather damage repair safely and effectively.
How Can Mr. Handyman Help With Weather Damage Repairs?
Mr. Handyman offers various services tailored to repairing weather damage, including fence repair, roof restoration, gutter cleaning, and mold remediation.
What Areas of My Home Are Most Vulnerable to Weather Damage?
Roofs, gutters, siding, windows, and foundations are the most vulnerable areas. Additionally, crawl spaces, basements, and attics are common trouble spots for water intrusion and insulation issues.
