Quick Checks for Snow Damage
2010-02-19 Check exterior air intakes, exhausts and meters
Snow and ice buildup around the air intakes of ventilation systems, exhausts from the dryer or furnace, and on meters can significantly reduce their effectiveness. Clear out these areas to make sure systems work well, and meters can be read accurately.
Remove ice dams on eves and gutters
Snow and Ice should be removed from roof edges and gutters to prevent ice dams. Ice dams can cause leaks not only into soffit areas but also into the roof. See the picture below from the February 11 Washington Post for further explanation of ice dams. Exercise extreme caution if you decide to clear ice dams yourself. It is not recommended to climb on the roof to remove the ice dam because of the danger of falling as well as damaging your roof.
Inspect basements or crawl spaces for seepage
Melting snow often saturates the ground, and can seep into basements and crawlspaces. Check for dampness around water lines.
Clear walk areas
As the snow on your house melts, ice becomes an issue on walkways. Also, make sure to check for any overhead hazards that have potential to fall on walk areas.
Avoid snow piles or drifts around windows and doors
You should clear snow from windows and doors because when the snow melts it can leak into areas around these openings.
If Schroeder Design/Build, Inc. can be of any assistance please let us know.
Stimulus legislation in late 2008 and early 2009 greatly expanded the range of Federal Tax Credits for improvements that increase the energy efficiency of your home. The rate increased from 10% of the cost, up to $500 to 30% of cost, up to $1500. The list of eligible improvements has also been expanded, and the deadline for installing them has been extended through the end of 2010. With incentives like these and cold weather around the corner, there is no better time to take action to lower your home utility costs.
Run For the Rainforest 5K
2010-02-17 Have you heard about the Amazon Conservation Team (ACT) "Run for the Rainforest" 5K? Our clients Lisa Hundley-Reeves and Kristen Hundley-Reeves are actively involved in supporting this great cause. Lisa is this year's Race Director. We learned of their passion for the Amazon when we put a family room/kitchen addition on their home (see picture), and have been very impressed ever since!
