Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - As we hit the peak of the thaw of this freeze/thaw cycle of winter, home improvement expert and host of WBEN's "Hammertime Radio", Domenic Cortese gives advice on what to look for, and how to address issues later this winter and this year.
Cortese says there are some things that may need attention around your house.
"First of all, when you see a lot of icicles form from after a snowfall, that's an indication of heat loss, which means that insulation may be lacking in your attic, and poor ventilation may be attributing to moisture buildup as well. Both are signs that some attention needs to be addressed to the conditions in your attic for insulation and ventilation," said Cortese with WBEN. "Now, once the ice melts, of course, that water has to have a place to go. The next area of concern would be possibly water infiltration, which could occur into your basement. And water leaking into the basement is an indication that we may have issues there, leading to brain tile problems around the perimeter of the building, maybe some pump issues as well."
Cortese says keep an eye out for poor drainage, which is allowing this water to collect.
"Letting water seep into your basement could lead to problems with mold and also the inconvenience of water infiltration. So dealing with water on your perimeter could forestall the issues of dealing with mold and water damage inside your basement," Cortese said.
Dealing with insulation can be done right now.
"The wintertime is the best time, and that the temperatures in the attic are more comfortable than it might be in the middle of summer. So if you did go through a bout where you had tremendous heat loss, great ice formation, and you want to address that now it may be a smart move to get that done in the winter months so as to avoid the heat of the summer," Cortese noted.
Cortese warns, though, if you ignore the heat loss you may have in your attic, not only are you going to pay more for your utility bills, but you could also have an issue of moisture entrapment in your attic.
"[That] could lead to roof deck deterioration from mold growth," Cortese said. "The consequence there could be the need for a new roof, as well as a new roof deck."
Temperatures are expected to return to the 30s this weekend.