Preventing Ice Dams and Roof Collapse

With the frequent snowstorms, we have received calls from homeowners regarding ice dams
and also from businesses regarding the accumulation of snow on business rooftops.

Ice dams occur when ice builds up along the eaves of a roof. Snow and ice melt off the main part of the roof and re-freeze when they reach the eaves. This happens because the eaves (overhangs at the edge of the roof) tend to be colder than the rest of the roof. If the ice dam grows large enough, it may prevent water from draining off the roof. Water can then back up underneath the roof shingles and make its way inside the home.

Although ice dams can cause water leakage inside a home, they do not typically damage the roof itself.  
The typical homeowners policy covers the resulting water damage to the interior of the home, but does not cover the cost to remove snow and ice from the roof.
Roof collapse and/or damagecan occur when excessive snow accumulates on a roof. The potential for roof collapse or structural damage increases as the weight of accumulated snow and ice exceeds the snow load capacity of the roof. Rain falling on accumulated snow is especially dangerous because snow-covered roofs don’t drain well and accumulating water and ice can quickly exceed the design limits of the roof. 
Steps you can take to help prevent damage from ice dams and roof overload:  

  • Monitor snow accumulation on your roof.
  • Contacting a licensed contractor to have snow and ice cleared off the roof before it accumulates to 50% of the snow load capacity of the roof is the best way to prevent roof collapse from overload.
  • Having snow and ice removed before it melts is the best way to prevent ice dams from forming.  A contractor may use a roof rake to remove snow from the edges of the roof where ice dams occur.
  • We do not recommend clients attempt to clear snow and ice from their roofs themselves.
  • Make sure to shovel around downspouts so that your gutters can drain freely. This will help prevent ice buildup in gutters.

Properly insulating and ventilating your attic will help reduce the chances of snow melting on the roof and re-freezing at the eaves. 

If you suspect damage has occurred as a result of an ice dam or excessive snow build up on your roof, contact the McSweeney & Ricci Claims Department
as soon as possible. 
Our claims professionals can provide you with tips for preventing further damage.

If you’ve already contacted a licensed and insured contractor to help with emergency repairs, be sure to document any expenses so they can be considered for reimbursement.

The following resources can help you stay safe:
Tips to Help Remove an Ice Dam
Removing Snow From Your Roof
How to Shovel Snow Safely
Winter Driving Safety Tips

 

 

 

 

 

McSweeney & Ricci Insurance Agency, Inc.
42R Mattakeesett St., Unit A
Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-2417
Fax: (781) 843-8807

More from the Latest News

Why Buy Insurance Through a Local Massachusetts Insurance Agent Like McSweeney & Ricci?

img-description

Just like how you can taste the difference when you buy produce from your local farm stand as opposed to getting it at the grocery store, some things are just better when they’re local. That stands true for insurance as well! (Granted we may be a bit biased.)  While you can go online and “in […]

McSweeney & Ricci Annual Summer Outing Office Hours

img-description

Pleased by advised that both McSweeney & Ricci offices will close at noon on Thursday, June 29th to allow our staff to enjoy our annual summer outing. In case of emergency, please call our main phone number at (781) 848-8600 or (844) 501-1359 and our answering service will contact us to assist you. We will re-open for normal business hours […]

Dog Bite Insurance in Massachusetts

img-description

People love their pets. Especially dogs. The dog is America’s favorite pet. Living within U.S. households are approximately 85 million dogs, which means 45% of homes have at least one dog. (1) Wise Voter.com reports that in Massachusetts, 29% of households have at least one dog. (2) Dogs are also the favorite pet of McSweeney […]