Prevent Your Property from Winter Disasters
The McCarthy Team Shares Tips on Safeguarding Against Water, Sewage, and Fire Damage
MARYSVILLE, WA – As winter approaches, The McCarthy Team, a leading restoration company with extensive experience in serving Snohomish, Skagit, King, and Island Counties, urges homeowners and commercial property owners to take proactive steps to protect their properties from common winter-related disasters. With colder temperatures, heavy rains, and snowfall on the horizon, it is essential to safeguard against water damage, sewage issues, and fire hazards.
“Preventing damage before it happens is always the best strategy,” says Rick McCarthy, owner of The McCarthy Team. “By taking these steps, you can protect your property and your loved ones during winter.”
Tips to Prepare Your Home or Commercial Property for Winter:
1. Water Damage Prevention:
- Gutter Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages from leaves, debris, and ice dams, which can cause roof leaks.
- Roof Inspection: Check for missing or damaged shingles and repair promptly to prevent leaks. Consider a professional inspection for older roofs.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings with weather-resistant caulk to keep moisture out and warm air in.
- Pipe Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Winterize Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect hoses and drain faucets and install frost-proof covers to protect outdoor plumbing.
- Heating System Check: Ensure your heating system functions correctly with a professional inspection, reducing the risk of frozen pipes.
2. Sewage Damage Prevention:
- Septic System Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for septic systems to prevent backups and overflows.
- Proper Waste Disposal: Only flush toilet paper and waste. Avoid disposing of non-biodegradable items, grease, and large food scraps down drains.
- Tree Roots Inspection: Check for tree root intrusion in sewer lines, which can cause blockages. Install root barriers or consider professional treatments if needed.
3. Fire, Smoke, and Soot Damage Prevention:
- Heating System Maintenance: Inspect and clean heating systems, including furnaces, fireplaces, and stoves, before winter. Replace filters as needed.
- Chimney Care: Schedule chimney inspections and cleanings to prevent creosote buildup, which can cause fires.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install detectors on every level of your property, test them monthly, replace batteries annually, and update devices every ten years.
- Fire Safety Plan: Create a fire safety plan, including escape routes and meeting points, and conduct regular fire drills.
- Fire Extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers in accessible areas, such as kitchens and near heating sources, and ensure everyone knows how to use them.
By following these guidelines, property owners in Snohomish and Skagit Counties can mitigate the risk of winter-related disasters, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all occupants.
The McCarthy Team is always available, 24/7, to assist with emergency restoration services, including water damage restoration, sewage cleanup, and fire and smoke damage restoration. This ensures that properties are restored to their pre-damage condition quickly and efficiently, providing you with peace of mind.
For more information on The McCarthy Team’s services or to request assistance, please call (425) 873-8952 or visit mccarthyteam.com.
About The McCarthy Team: Based in Marysville, WA, the McCarthy Team is a trusted property damage restoration company serving Snohomish and Skagit Counties. Specializing in water damage restoration, sewage cleanup, and fire and smoke damage restoration, the McCarthy Team is committed to helping property owners recover from unexpected disasters.
Contact Information: The McCarthy Team
14608 Smokey Point Blvd #1
Marysville, WA 98271
Rick McCarthy
(425) 873-8952