As longtime residents of Northeast Pennsylvania, we’re used to prepping our homes for frozen pipes in the winter and windy storms in the fall.
However, as the climate changes and storm surges worsen, we have noticed an uptick in weather-related damage to homes in the area.
Even seasonal dangers, such as a buildup of leaves in gutters or excessive humidity in the summer, can damage homes indirectly without our knowledge.
While NEPA boasts a moderate, subtropical climate, homeowners need to be aware of plenty of things when buying or selling a home with weather-related damage.
This guide will explore the most frequent examples of weather-related damage we’ve experienced on homes in NEPA and provide tips for inspecting and preventing such damage.
1. Roof Damage from Snow, Ice, and Wind
Roof damage is one of the most common and expensive home problems that we often uncover during home inspections.
Unfortunately, for homeowners, avoiding roof damage is very difficult as several weather-related factors can damage your roof, including:
- Snow Accumulation: Excessive snow on a roof adds weight, increasing the risk of structural strain and potential collapse.
- Ice Dams: When ice ridges form at the roof’s edge, they trap melting snow, which can lead to water seeping beneath shingles and causing leaks.
- Wind Damage: Strong winter and spring winds can dislodge or crack shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to water damage.
In addition, damage from falling tree limbs and debris is widespread in the area, especially for homes in more rural areas, such as the Poconos, Bear Creek, or Tunkhannock.
To prevent roof damage from worsening, we highly recommend scheduling a roof inspection every few years to get ahead of repairs. In addition, it’s essential to clear off any debris that may fall on the roof that could end up in downspouts or get lodged between shingles.
2. Basement Flooding from Heavy Rains and Snowmelt
On the opposite end of the house lies the basement, which is typically protected from the elements but can be vulnerable to flooding.
Unfortunately, flooding doesn’t need to occur from a once-in-a-lifetime event like Hurricane Agnes in 1972. Still, it can be a frequent concern for residents in mountainous regions that live on hills.
For example, residents in hilly neighborhoods, such as Pittston, Clarks Summit, and Mountain Top, frequently experience basement flooding caused by water that flows past their houses from higher elevations.
Sealing basement cracks is only half the battle; many residents require sump pumps and, in extreme cases, new slope grading to divert water away from their homes and basements.
3. Frozen Pipes in Winter
Every Northeastern resident is familiar with extreme cold alerts that require you to leave your cabinets open and the faucet dripping to avoid freezing pipes. Unfortunately, even with the right precautions, frozen pipes can be inevitable and wreak havoc on the interior of your home.
Water damage caused by broken or damaged pipes can lead to a host of issues, including damage to floors, foundation damage, mold growth, and replacement of your pipes.
When inspecting homes, one of the most essential things we search for is water damage caused by flooding or humidity, as well as broken or leaky pipes.
4. Siding and Exterior Wall Damage from High Winds and Hail
Extreme gusty winds are common in Northeast Pennsylvania and can cause many issues for your siding. In our experience, aluminum or vinyl siding is the most vulnerable to damage, such as puncturing or separation from the home.
While siding damage may appear only to be an aesthetic concern, it can also cause several issues that can harm your home. For example, holes in your siding can invite moisture, pests, and other debris that damage interior components.
5. Foundation Cracks from Soil Shifting and Frost Heave
Foundation issues are prevalent in Northeast PA due to the rapid freezing and thawing cycle of the soil during the fall and spring. Unfortunately, these cycles allow the soil to expand and contract, causing voids to form and the soil to shift.
Another cause of foundation damage is heavy rainfall, which saturates the surrounding soil and penetrates the foundation. Malfunctioning gutters also allow water to pool around foundations and form cracks.
When hunting for a home, don’t discount an older home’s advantage when it comes to a settled foundation. Newer homes are often more vulnerable to foundation shifting and its ill effects as these homes will not have very established foundations.
6. Gutter and Downspout Damage from Ice and Debris Buildup
Speaking of gutters, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of proper gutter maintenance during the fall and winter. Gutters are essential for diverting water away from your home’s foundation during rain and snow.
A clogged, separated, or damaged gutter downspout will immediately be a red flag that we log on our inspection report and urge home sellers to fix.
Some of the most common issues we find with gutters in Northeast PA include:
- Clogs: Leaves, ice, and debris can block gutters, leading to water overflow.
- Ice Dams: Water trapped by ice can lead to ice dams, causing roof and foundation damage.
Seasonal cleaning, winterizing gutters, and installing leaf guards can be great proactive tips for keeping gutters in working condition.
7. Mold Growth in Humid Summer Conditions
Finally, we focus so much on weather-related events during the fall and winter, but the spring and summer can bring their issues. For example, mold buildup is one of the most common problems we discover on home inspection reports.
However, mold is not always the result of leaky pipes or flooded basements. In many cases, older homes with poor ventilation in bathrooms, attics, and basements can cause mold to build up during hot and humid conditions.
For this reason, we always urge home buyers to conduct a mold inspection when searching for a home, as mold buildup can cause several health-related issues.
The Importance of Regular Home Inspections
Being subject to a constant barrage of changing temperatures and extreme storms, houses in Northeast Pennsylvania can take a beating. We urge homeowners, buyers, and sellers to conduct regular home inspections to get ahead of repairs and costly damage.
For a reliable home inspection in Northeast PA with the most accurate assessments of the quality and condition of your home, turn to the experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections. We are long-time local residents of NEPA with a keen understanding of weather-related issues that can damage your home and impact its value.
FAQs
How often should I inspect my roof in Northeast PA?
It’s recommended to inspect your roof every five years or after severe weather events. Spotting minor issues early can prevent major damage.
How can I prevent my basement from flooding?
Installing a sump pump, maintaining proper grading around your home, and sealing foundation cracks are effective ways to prevent basement flooding.
What can I do to prevent ice dams on my roof?
Keep your gutters clear, add insulation to your attic, and consider installing roof heating cables to prevent ice dams from forming.
What are the signs of foundation issues caused by frost heave?
Look for cracks in walls and floors, doors and windows that stick, and uneven floors, as these could indicate foundation movement from frost heave.