Discover the top reasons mountain homes suffer water damage and learn practical Summit County, CO water damage restoration and prevention tips to protect your property year-round.

Mountain homes offer breathtaking views and peaceful retreats, but the unique weather that is common in the Summit County, Co. area can also lead to costly water damage. Whether it’s from snow, ice, or the intense seasonal changes, mountain homes can face water damage risks that require extra attention. This blog will explore the top causes of water damage in mountain homes with prevention tips to protect your property.

Frozen Pipes are a Common Winter Worry in the High Country

Cold temperatures can freeze water inside pipes, causing them to burst and flood your home.

Signs of Trouble

Low water pressure, frost around pipes, or strange noises in the pipes.

Prevention Tips
  • Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
  • Keep a steady trickle of water flowing during extremely cold spells, and open cabinet doors under sinks to let heat in.

Roof Leaks from Heavy Snowfall and Ice Dams

Accumulated snow and ice can cause ice dams, which prevent proper drainage and lead to leaks inside homes.

Signs of Trouble 

Stains on the ceiling, soggy insulation, or wet spots in the attic.

Prevention Tips
  • Ensure proper insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams.
  • Clean gutters regularly to ensure water flows freely and snow melts properly- a must in the fall to remove leaves and debris. 
  • Install heated cables along the roofline to help prevent ice and snow buildup.
  • Use a roof rake to regularly clean heavy snow from the rooftop. Explore this link from Better Homes & Gardens about the importance of roof rakes, how to use them and when.

Poorly Sealed Windows and Doors

Gaps or worn-out seals around windows and doors can let moisture and condensation into your home, especially during snowstorms or rain.

Signs of Trouble

Condensation on windows, drafts, or dampness around windowsills.

Prevention Tips
  • Regularly inspect and replace weatherstripping on windows and doors.
  • Caulk around windows and doors to seal any gaps.
  • Use storm windows or plastic window film for extra protection during winter months.

Flooding from Melting Snow and Spring Thaw

Snowmelt combined with spring rains can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding.

Signs of Trouble

Wet carpets, standing water, or musty odors in your home.

Prevention Tips
  • Ensure proper landscaping and grading around your home to direct water away from the foundation.
  • Install sump pumps to prevent water from accumulating in the basement and crawl space.
  • Keep gutters and downspouts clear to ensure proper water flow.

Foundation Cracks Allowing Water In

The freeze-thaw cycle can cause soil movement that puts pressure on your foundation, leading to cracks and water infiltration.

Signs of Trouble

Visible cracks in walls or floors, especially after a freeze-thaw event.

Prevention Tips

  • Inspect your foundation regularly and seal any visible cracks with water-resistant sealants.
  • Maintain proper drainage around your home to reduce soil movement.
  • Monitor the landscape for changes in elevation that may lead to water pooling near the foundation.

Overflowing or Clogged Drains

Clogged outdoor drains from leaves, debris, or ice buildup can prevent proper drainage, leading to water overflow and backups inside your home.

Signs of Trouble 

Standing water in sinks, bathtubs, or toilets, and slow-draining pipes.

Prevention Tips

  • Regularly clean and clear out drains, gutters, and downspouts.
  • Install drain covers to prevent debris from clogging pipes.
  • Inspect and maintain any sump pumps or drain pumps to ensure they’re functioning properly.

Water damage in mountain homes is a significant concern in the cold winter months. With proactive measure you can minimize the risks. Regular inspections and maintenance, such as winterizing plumbing, ensuring proper insulation, and monitoring for leaks, can go a long way in protecting your property. If you’re unsure about handling these tasks give our sister company Exclusive Cleaning Summit a call! Our experienced inspection team can spot areas of trouble and recommend proper preventative maintenance. We provide peace of mind and ensure your mountain home remains safe, dry, and an enjoyable retreat.

Exclusive Cleaning is here to help!

Keep our number handy if the unthinkable happens and water damage occurs in your home. Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration offers immediate assistance when water damage happens, focusing on water extraction and further damage mitigation.

Don’t wait until water damage becomes a costly problem—take action now and give Exclusive Cleaning a call today for a complete home inspection to safeguard your mountain home from costly winter weather damage.