Tips for Boise Residents: Preventing Water Damage During Winter

Frozen pipes can cause serious water damage when the ice inside expands and bursts the pipe. This is a common winter issue in Boise, especially in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.

To protect your pipes:

• Use foam pipe insulation sleeves on exposed pipes. These sleeves act as a barrier, helping to keep pipes warm and prevent freezing, especially in areas that get very cold but don’t have heat.
• Keep a slow trickle of water running during extreme cold snaps. Moving water is less likely to freeze, so letting faucets drip slightly can reduce the risk of pipes freezing and bursting.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes. This is particularly helpful for pipes located near outside walls, allowing warm air from your home to reach and protect them.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and water sources. Leaving hoses attached can cause water to freeze and back up into indoor pipes, damaging your plumbing system.
• Regularly inspect pipes for leaks or cracks before winter sets in. Even small cracks can worsen with freezing temperatures, so early detection and repair are key to preventing bursts.

Following these steps can help keep your home safe from winter water damage and save you from costly repairs.



Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, causing water to back up under shingles. This can lead to leaks and significant water damage inside your home. To prevent ice dams and keep your roof and gutters in good shape during Boise’s winters, consider these steps:

• Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. Good insulation keeps warm air from rising and melting snow unevenly, while ventilation helps maintain an even roof temperature to stop ice dams from forming.
• Regularly remove snow from your roof, but always prioritize safety. Use a roof rake or hire a professional to prevent heavy snow accumulation that can lead to ice dams and roof damage.
• Clean gutters and downspouts before winter. Clearing leaves, debris, and dirt helps ensure water drains freely, preventing clogs that cause water backup and ice buildup.
• Inspect and repair roofing shingles or flashing in the fall. Fixing damaged or loose shingles reduces the risk of leaks when ice and water build up on your roof.
• Consider installing gutter guards. They help keep gutters clear during snowy months, reducing the chance of ice dams forming.

Taking these precautions protects your home’s roof, improves drainage, and reduces the risk of costly water damage from winter weather.

Cold drafts bring freezing air into your home and let warm air escape, increasing the risk of pipes freezing and raising heating costs. Sealing gaps and draft-proofing your home helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature and protects your plumbing during Boise’s cold winters. Here are some effective steps to take:

• Seal gaps around windows, doors, and foundation cracks using weatherstripping and caulk. These materials block cold air from sneaking inside through small openings where pipes might be vulnerable.
• Use window insulation film on older windows. This clear plastic film adds an extra layer of protection, reducing heat loss and keeping rooms warmer.
• Add door draft stoppers at the base of exterior doors. These simple devices prevent chilly air from entering through gaps under doors, improving overall home comfort.
• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature during winter, aiming for about 55°F when you’re away. Sudden drops in temperature can increase the risk of pipes freezing, so keeping a steady warmth is safer for your plumbing.

Sealing your home against drafts is an affordable way to protect your pipes and keep your living space cozy through the harsh Idaho winter.

Regular maintenance helps ensure your plumbing system can handle the cold and avoids water damage during Idaho’s intense winters. Preparing your plumbing before winter arrives can prevent emergencies and costly repairs. Here are key maintenance tasks to focus on:

• Schedule a pre-winter inspection for your water heater and main plumbing lines. A professional can spot vulnerabilities, leaks, or needed repairs that might worsen when freezing weather hits.
• Check sump pumps to ensure they are working properly. Sump pumps protect your basement from flooding caused by melting snow and ice, which is important in Boise’s winter conditions.
• Drain any unused water lines, such as those connected to outdoor irrigation or seasonal appliances. Standing water in these lines can freeze and cause damage.
• Have your furnace and heating system tuned up by a professional. Efficient heating is essential to maintain safe indoor temperatures that protect your plumbing from freezing.

Routine winter plumbing maintenance helps you avoid unexpected problems and keeps your home running smoothly through cold weather.

Winter water damage can come from outside your home as well. Taking care of your yard and outdoor spaces helps prevent issues like flooding and structural damage caused by snow and ice. Here are important steps for Boise homeowners:

• Stock pet-safe de-icers for walkways. These products help keep paths clear without harming your pets or damaging concrete and plants.
• Trim tree branches that could break under heavy snow or ice. Fallen branches can damage your roof, siding, or vehicles during winter storms.
• Make sure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation. Proper drainage prevents water from pooling around your foundation, which can lead to basement flooding when snow melts.

Preparing your yard for winter protects your property from indirect water damage and keeps your outdoor areas safer during the cold season.

Even with careful preparation, water damage can still happen during Idaho’s intense winters. Knowing how to respond quickly can limit the damage and speed up recovery. Follow these steps if you discover water damage in your home:

• Turn off the main water supply immediately to stop any further leaking or flooding.
• Contact professional water damage restoration services as soon as possible. Experts can safely remove water, dry affected areas, and prevent mold growth.
• Monitor your home closely for signs of mold and moisture buildup in hidden areas like behind walls or under floors.
• Document all damage thoroughly with photos and notes for insurance claims to help cover repair costs.

Taking prompt action reduces the impact of water damage and helps protect your home’s structure and your family’s health during the cold winter months.

Protecting your home from water damage during Boise’s intense winters starts with proactive preparation. Taking steps to prevent frozen pipes, ice dams, drafts, and outdoor water-related problems can save you from costly repairs and stress.

Start winterizing your home early to ensure your plumbing, roof, and yard are ready to face Idaho’s cold weather. With these tips, you can keep your home safe, warm, and dry all winter long.

Don’t wait until water damage catches you off guard. Take action now to safeguard your home through Idaho’s intense winters. Whether you need expert inspections, repairs, or emergency restoration, Pursuit Restoration is here to help. Schedule a service online or call (208) 515-6503 to learn how to keep your home safe, dry, and worry-free all winter long.