How to prevent damage from snow and ice
Accumulation of snow and ice on the roof and gutter of a green house.
Climate changes in recent years have brought an increase in precipitation. Each year, the greater accumulation of snow and ice requires increased vigilance. In order to avoid damage to your property, here are some useful tips to help you have a hassle-free winter
1. The accumulation of snow and ice on your roof
In general, the structure of buildings is designed to withstand the onslaught of winter. But in the event of heavy precipitation, the accumulations of snow and ice can become heavy (in weight, and consequently!).
When to remove snow from the roof of your house?
It's time to take action when the roof buildup reaches 70 cm (about 2 feet) of snow or 5 cm (about 2 inches) of ice.
Tips for safe snow removal: Snow removal and roof de-icing require the greatest care due to nearby electrical installations, the risk of falling and the risk of accidental damage to the roof covering. If you are removing snow from your roof yourself, use caution and work from the ground up, using a long-handled telescopic shovel.
Note: To avoid damaging the shingles, always leave a minimum accumulation of 5 cm of snow so that the tools never directly touch the roof. Careless and careless snow removal could result in roof damage that may not be covered by your home insurance contract.
Call in an expert: Having said that, and because the dangers are real and injuries are too common, it is recommended that you call in an expert with the right equipment. The latter is familiar with the best safety practices, particularly in removing ice from the roof, which is a difficult task.
What are the warning signs of water infiltration?
Regardless of the amount of snow or ice, watch for signs of water infiltration on the ceiling and walls of the upper floor of the house. Check carefully for:
Water spots or rings;
Blisters;
Water droplets.
How do you spot a threat to the structure of your home?
The appearance of cracks on the interior walls;
Interior doors that start to jam, rub or do not close properly;
The deformation of the ceiling in one of the rooms of the house;
Unusual crackles coming from the structure.
If you are concerned about a danger of water infiltration or an accumulation of snow, contact a building expert promptly.
Does your home insurance cover you against damage related to snow and ice?
In order for damage caused by water infiltration or the weight of ice or snow to be covered, you must add the protection Water damage - water above ground and weight of snow, ice or a mixture of rain, snow or ice (endorsement 42) to your home insurance, if you are insured with us.
2. Ice formed on the edge of roofs
The beautiful large icicles that line the edges of the roofs are part of the charm of our winter landscapes of yesteryear. But, to a discerning eye, this crystal lace is first and foremost a threat that can be very damaging to the roof: ice barriers.
These ridges that form at the edge of the roof are most often a sign that the building is losing heat through the roof, most likely due to poor insulation or poor air circulation in the attic. When this heat from inside melts the snow on the roof, the resulting water flows to the lower part of the roof and freezes again.
The ice thus formed collects on the edge and creates a barrier that prevents water from draining from the roof. As a result, this water collects behind the ice barrier and can enter the home, seeping through walls and ceilings.
How to prevent the formation of ice barriers?
Damage caused by snow and ice can be avoided in part with the following tips. As with snow removal from the roof, it is recommended that you call in an expert who has the right equipment and who knows the safety rules.
Examine the edges of the roof regularly - and with caution - to make sure that no ice barrier forms there;
Inspect the interior of the attic and seal any openings that could allow warm air from the house and enter;
Make sure there is no spacing between the insulation blankets (eg mineral wool);
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