Don’t let winter get the best of you! Mapfre wants to help you prepare and survive this season. By now you’re probably well aware of ice dams and all the trouble they can cause. But just in case you aren’t, we wanted to share some tips on ice dam preparation and prevention.
What is an Ice Dam?
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof and prevent melting snow from draining off your roof.
Water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage. Walls, insulation and ceilings are at the greatest risk for damage.
What to do if you have an Ice Dam?
Remove the first three to four feet of snow from the roofline with a roof rake or soft bristled broom. If the home is too tall to reach the roof then hire a roofing professional to clear the snow. Contact your Mapfre Insurance agent as soon as possible.
Sources:
www.disastersafety.org/ibhs-risks-freezing-weather/reduce-winter-weather-damage-to-businesses
https://bct.eco.umass.edu/publications/by-title/preventing-ice-dams/
http://www.gaf.com/Roofing/Residential/Products/Leak_Barriers
