When a major snowstorm hits Chicago, you need to act quickly to protect your property from damage.
As a local resident, you’ll face unique challenges during Chicago’s harsh winters, from heavy snow accumulation to potential ice dams and water damage.
Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Here at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we specialize in disaster recovery services for customers throughout the Chicago area.
We’ve compiled our more than 20 years of experience into this comprehensive guide to help you figure out what to do when disaster strikes.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Snowstorm
1. Check Your Property’s Structure
First, inspect your property as soon as it’s safe to go outside.
Here’s what to look for:
- Check your roof for snow accumulation. Too much snow can put a lot of weight on your roof, which can damage it or even cause it to collapse.
- Look for signs of sagging under the weight of the snow. If your roof looks like it’s sagging, it could mean the structure is under stress and needs immediate attention.
- Inspect gutters and downspouts for ice buildup. Ice can block proper drainage, causing water to back up and leading to leaks or damage.
- Examine windows and doors for damage from snow or ice damage – Snow and ice can weaken seals or frames, letting cold air in and raising your heating bill.
- Watch for icicles forming along your roofline – While they look pretty, icicles often mean ice dams are forming, which can cause severe water damage.
2. Clear Snow Safely
You must remove snow properly to prevent property damage and injury:
- Use a roof rake to remove snow from your roof carefully – This helps prevent ice dams and reduces the weight of heavy snow that could damage your roof.
- Clear snow at least 3 feet away from your foundation – Keeping snow away helps avoid water seeping into your basement when it melts.
- Keep vents and utility meters free from snow – Blocked vents can lead to dangerous gas buildup, and covered meters make it harder for utility workers to do their jobs.
- Create paths to all emergency exits – You’ll want to ensure you can leave your home safely in an emergency.
- Remove snow from basement window wells. This will prevent water from pooling and leaking into your basement when snow melts.
3. Prevent Ice Dams
Ice dams can cause severe water damage to your property. Here’s how to handle them:
- Look for ice buildup along your roof’s edges – Ice buildup, also known as ice dams, can cause water to back up under your shingles and damage your roof.
- Check your attic for proper ventilation – Good airflow helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps ice dams from forming.
- Monitor your ceiling for water stains – Water stains on your ceilings or walls: This could mean a leak, possibly from your roof, plumbing, or even a leaking skylight, that needs immediate attention.
- Clear gutters of ice and snow safely – Blocked gutters can overflow water and damage your home, so it’s essential to keep them clear (just be sure to do it safely!).
- Consider installing heat cables in problem