New York State Homeowners Facing Ice Nightmare

The groundhog has predicted six more weeks of winter here in New York State, and after the winter we’ve already had, that feels like an eternity. Not only has it been brutally cold and snowy, but homes and buildings across the state are taking a beating. If you’re dealing with winter damage, you’re definitely not alone.

The forecast is calling for another deep freeze this weekend across New York State. Just when it felt like we were turning a corner with temperatures hovering near 20 degrees, Mother Nature and Old Man Winter are proving they’re not finished yet. Some areas will see significant snowfall, along with subzero temperatures during the first weekend of February.

The good news? Sunrise and sunset times are getting longer and will continue to do so throughout the month. By the end of February, we will have gained nearly an hour of daylight. That extra light makes the cold weather a little easier to handle when you’re no longer commuting to and from work in total darkness.

Ice Dams and Ice Jams Causing Major Problems for New York Homeowners

One of the biggest issues haunting homeowners this winter is the buildup of ice on roofs. Ice dams and ice jams are being reported all over New York State. It has gotten so bad that social media feeds are filled with people asking for recommendations for reputable contractors who can address the problem quickly.

While many businesses are overwhelmed with calls, there are a few things homeowners can safely do in the meantime. First and foremost, remove as much snow from your roof as you can in a safe manner. This helps prevent snow from melting, refreezing, and forcing water back under shingles.

I had to take matters into my own hands this week after a leak started in our bedroom. I knocked off massive chunks of ice and eventually reached the source, where water began flowing like a hose beneath the ice. Although there are likely bigger roofing issues to address in the spring, this temporary fix appears to have stopped the leak for now.

The Real Cause of Ice Dams May Be Inside Your Home

According to several people who looked at my home, the real issue may actually be underneath the roof. Poor insulation or ventilation can cause heat to escape into the attic, melting snow on the roof. That melted snow runs down, refreezes at the colder eaves, and creates thick ice buildup.

Related: Mandatory Requirement For Ice Fishermen in New York State

I’ve lived in this house for more than 10 years and have never seen ice pile up on the eaves like this. The roof valleys seemed to be the biggest problem areas. When water backs up behind the ice, it can work its way under shingles and even past ice and water shield, eventually leaking into the home. It’s a homeowner’s nightmare, and it happened to us this week.

Thankfully, no one was hurt. It’s just a house, and I’m already working on a long-term solution.

What to Watch for When the Weather Finally Warms Up

If you’re dealing with ice dams, you are certainly not alone. Hopefully, the groundhog got it wrong and we see a warming trend soon that allows rooftops to safely defrost.

But when that happens, a new concern often follows: flooding.

Now is a good time to prepare your basement for possible water issues when snow and ice begin to melt. Put items up on pallets or shelves, get belongings off the floor, and keep an eye out for any signs of water seeping in once temperatures rise.

After six more weeks of winter, many New York homeowners may be trading ice problems for water problems. Being prepared now can save you a lot of stress later.