Snow is doing serious damage!
With the record snowfall this year, most of us are concerned with removing the snow from our driveways so we can get out and drive. But we should also pay attention to where else the snow is piling up.
Just this morning in the Hartford Courant, there were numerous articles about the damage done to roofs. In Somers, for example, the snow collapsed a barn and injured two horses to such an extent that they had to be euthanized. Several area businesses, commercial buildings, and residential garages and houses have experienced roof collapses. As claims come in and as emergency crews are called upon, we are sure to hear of other catastrophes.
On Thursday, Governor Malloy urged people to get the snow off the roofs, especially if the roofs are flat or have a smaller slope. Experts also advocate homeowners to make sure that vents to heating systems are not blocked with snow or ice. Another problem associated with the heavy snowfall is ice dams. As the snow melts, the water collects in the gutters where it freezes and prevents melting snow on the roof from going anywhere. The water can seep under the shingles where can cause damage to ceilings inside the house. Reuben Saltzman did a great job on explaining ice dams and how to correct them, so if your gutters are iced up, you will want to check out his posts.
To sum up:
- Get the snow off the roof if possible
- Check for frozen gutters and ice dams
- Make sure vents to the heating system are not blocked.
The snow may be beautiful to look at, but it is causing serious damage. Homeowners need to be aware of how the damage occurs and take steps to minimize the extent of the damage.
For recent posts and pictures of the snow:
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