Ice and Snow Damage Boise

Winter storms can cause roof leaks, broken gutters, frozen pipes, and tree damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to manage ice and snow damage effectively, including what to do during and after a storm and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Common Types of Ice and Snow Damage

Roof Damage: One of the most common winter problems is ice dams, which form when snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge. This blocks water from draining, causing leaks inside your home and damaging the roof’s structure. Over time, the weight of snow can also weaken the roof, leading to more significant issues.

Gutter Damage: Gutters can suffer from ice buildup, leading to large icicles that crack or break the system. Snow melts and refreezes in the gutter, causing overflow, which can lead to water damage near your foundation or roof.

Frozen Pipes: Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, understair spaces, or crawl spaces are susceptible to freezing. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and can cause it to burst, leading to significant water damage and costly repairs.

Tree Damage: Snow-laden branches often break or bend under the weight of heavy snow, potentially damaging your home, vehicles, or nearby power lines. Fallen trees or branches can pose immediate risks, making tree maintenance crucial before winter hits.

How to Prevent Ice and Snow Damage

Roof Maintenance: To protect your roof, remove excess snow with a roof rake to prevent buildup. Installing heat cables along the roof can prevent the formation of ice dams by keeping the edges warm enough to allow melting snow to flow properly.

Gutter Protection: Clean your gutters before winter to ensure they can handle water flow and prevent blockages. Installing gutter guards can stop debris from clogging your gutters. If ice buildup is a concern, consider reinforcing your gutters with additional brackets to prevent them from breaking under the weight of snow. Heated cables in gutters can also keep the water flowing, preventing freezing.

Pipe Insulation: To prevent pipes from freezing in unheated areas, use heat tape or pipe insulation. A simple trick is to leave faucets dripping slightly, which keeps water moving and reduces the pressure buildup that causes pipes to burst. When leaving your home for extended periods, turn off the water supply to avoid potential bursts from frozen pipes.

Tree Care: Trim overhanging branches before the snow season to reduce the risk of them breaking and falling onto your home or power lines. Regular tree maintenance is essential to prevent snow-laden branches from causing significant damage during winter storms.

What to Do After a Winter Storm

After a storm, inspect the property for damage. Start with the roof—look for ice dams, missing shingles, or any signs of leaks inside your home. Next, check the gutters for sagging or ice buildup that could lead to further damage. Assess the trees around your property for broken branches or leaning trees that could fall. Finally, check your pipes for signs of freezing, such as reduced water flow or visible ice on exposed pipes.

When to Call a Professional

Certain winter damage situations require professional intervention. If your roof has ice dams or leaks, contact a roofing contractor to address the issue before it worsens. If you experience frozen or burst pipes, a plumber can immediately repair and prevent further water damage. If snow-laden trees pose a risk to your property, call a certified arborist to remove them safely. For damaged or sagging gutters, a gutter specialist can help with repairs or replacement, ensuring they are strong enough to handle future snow and ice.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Many homeowner’s insurance policies will cover damage caused by ice and snow, but it’s important to know the specifics of your policy. Document all damage with photos and records, and contact your insurance provider promptly to report any issues.