Water Damage, Mold and Restoration Companies in Minneapolis and St. Paul

What Makes the Twin Cities Different

Winter is the main event. Long stretches below zero freeze pipes in exterior walls, porches and garages, and the damage usually shows up when the pipe thaws. Ice dams are common on older homes with little attic insulation, and meltwater backs up under shingles into ceilings and walls. Good attic insulation and ventilation prevent more ice dams than roof rakes do.

Spring snowmelt and heavy summer storms send water into basements through foundation cracks and window wells, and older homes can take sewer water back through floor drains. Most homes have basements, many of them finished. A sump pump with a battery backup, downspouts that drain well away from the house and a backwater valve are the key defenses.

Minneapolis and St. Paul have many homes built before 1978, including early 1900s houses and duplexes with old plaster, boilers and asbestos pipe wrap. Plan for lead paint on windows and trim, and have old materials tested before demolition. Humid summers also bring condensation and mold in basements, so run a dehumidifier.