Water Damage at your business or your home can be a nightmare.  Your best defense is to try and avoid the ice build up before the damage sets in.

Ice dams form along the edges of the roof and in valleys where snow can accumulate. When snow on the roof melts, the water has no place to go other than back up under the roof shingles.

The result can be extensive water damage to the interior of your home or commercial building.  

What causes Ice Dams to form?

Snow is melted by heat escaping through the roof. The water refreezes at the overhang at the bottom of the roof because it is colder than the rest of the roof. What weather conditions create ice buildup? First of all, there must be snow on the roof. Secondly, the outside temperature must be below freezing. The longer snow is on the roof and the longer the temperature remains below freezing, the more likely it is that ice buildup and leakage will occur.

What can you do?

Try your best to remove snow from your roof, but be very careful. It is very dangerous to be on a snowy, icy roof and your safety is paramount. Use a roof rake when possible, take your time, and seek help from a professional when needed. If you call a roofer to help remove snow, make sure that they are fully insured.

If possible, try to remove the ice dam that has formed along the edge of your roof, or cut some channels in the ice to allow water to run off the roof. Again, be very careful and seek help from an insured roofer when needed.

If water is leaking into the house, place buckets to catch the water whenever possible and move your furniture out of the way. Water can damage the ceilings, walls and floors in your house and if left unattended, can lead to mold growth. Ensuring that things are properly dried will prevent problems down the road.

Call your agent or broker and they can help you report your claim to the insurance company. Coverage for these claims depends on the type of policy you purchased. 

For additional information contact one of our Risk Management Advisors.