Spring-Thaw Checklist
The snow is beginning to melt and temperatures beginning to rise—signaling the arrival of the spring thaw season. After a long winter, debris can wreak havoc on your condominium’s drainage systems. Combine this with fluctuating weather conditions that put stress on your condo’s foundation and the potential for leaks and water damage reaches its seasonal peak.
To help you prepare for the warmer months ahead, check out Cion’s Spring-Thaw Checklist for condo owners and managers:
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: make sure gutters are clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup, causing leaks and potential damage to your foundation. Downspouts should also be directed away from the property to encourage water to drain outside of the foundation perimeter.
- Check Roof for Ice Related Damage: as temperatures rise and fall, ice dams can form in gutters and downspouts, inhibiting proper water flow. Ice dams are common culprits of leaks this time of year, making it crucial to check for any ice building.
- Inspect Foundation Corners and Perimeters: pay close attention to areas where water might accumulate, such as corners and near walls, which are more vulnerable to leaks during the thawing period. If you notice moisture near baseboards, particularly in basements, this could indicate water seeping through the foundation.
- Investigate Musty Smells: a musty odor might signal hidden water or mold growth due to moisture infiltration. Don’t ignore it—an unpleasant smell is always worth investigating.
- Look for Active Leaks: check for any visible cracks, gaps or signs of shifting along the perimeter of your foundation or basement. Foundation leaks often start as small cracks but can quickly worsen if not promptly addressed. Addressing active leaks as soon as possible is imperative to prevent further damage.
Regular maintenance is key to the long-term health of your condominium. Scheduling periodic inspections with Cion’s team of professionals will help you catch small issues before they become costly repairs—giving you peace of mind today, and money saved tomorrow.
Need an inspection? We’re ready to help. Start a conversation.
