What to Look For Around Your Home After a Major Snowstorm
After one of the biggest snowstorms Pittsburgh has seen in years, many homeowners are starting to dig out and get back to normal. While clearing walkways and driveways is the immediate priority, heavy snow and prolonged cold can also impact parts of your home that aren’t always obvious at first glance.
Here are several common areas worth checking after a major snowstorm to help catch small issues before they turn into larger repairs.
Here are several common areas worth checking after a major snowstorm to help catch small issues before they turn into larger repairs.
Exterior Steps, Railings, and Walkways
Snow, ice, and repeated freezing can loosen railings, shift steps, and stress fasteners. As things thaw, you may notice railings that feel less secure or steps that weren’t an issue before the storm.
Checking these areas early can help keep entryways safe and prevent further movement as temperatures fluctuate.
Checking these areas early can help keep entryways safe and prevent further movement as temperatures fluctuate.
Doors and Windows
Heavy snow and cold temperatures can cause doors and windows to swell or shift slightly. After a storm, you may notice doors sticking, drafts, or windows that don’t open or close as smoothly.
These changes often show up as the weather warms and materials expand again, making it a good time to take note of anything that feels off.
These changes often show up as the weather warms and materials expand again, making it a good time to take note of anything that feels off.
Interior Ceilings and Walls
Melting snow and ice can sometimes find its way into places it shouldn’t, especially around roofs and upper levels. After a major snowstorm, it’s a good idea to look for new stains, discoloration, or soft spots on ceilings and walls.
Even small changes can signal moisture issues that are easier to address sooner rather than later.
Even small changes can signal moisture issues that are easier to address sooner rather than later.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Cold temperatures can stress plumbing, particularly in exterior walls or less-insulated areas. After a storm, keep an eye out for slow leaks, dripping fixtures, or damp cabinet interiors.
These issues aren’t always immediately noticeable but often show up as systems return to normal use.
These issues aren’t always immediately noticeable but often show up as systems return to normal use.
Exterior Trim and Siding
Snow accumulation and ice can put added pressure on exterior materials. As everything thaws, loose trim, small gaps, or minor siding issues may become more noticeable.
Addressing these early helps limit moisture exposure during Pittsburgh’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
Addressing these early helps limit moisture exposure during Pittsburgh’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
Prevent Bigger Repairs Later
If you’ve noticed changes around your home after the storm or want a second set of eyes on potential issues, a professional handyman can help.
Hammer & Nails Handyman provides services throughout the Pittsburgh and Deep Creek Lake areas, helping homeowners keep their properties in good condition through every season. Call your local Pittsburgh team at 412-435-5448.
Hammer & Nails Handyman provides services throughout the Pittsburgh and Deep Creek Lake areas, helping homeowners keep their properties in good condition through every season. Call your local Pittsburgh team at 412-435-5448.
