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 can be an early sign of leaks caused by melting ice or snow, so catching them early can save you trouble later.
- 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 areas – Heat cables can melt ice in spots prone to buildup, helping prevent issues before they start.
Common Post-Snowstorm Problems
Water Damage
You might face several types of water damage after a snowstorm:
- Melting snow seeping into your foundation
- Burst pipes from freezing temperatures
- Ice dam leakage through your roof
- Flooding from blocked drainage systems
- Water damage from snow-packed gutters
Structural Issues
Heavy snow can cause various structural problems:
- Roof damage from excessive weight
- Collapsed porches or awnings
- Foundation cracks from freeze-thaw cycles
- Damaged gutters and downspouts
- Stressed load-bearing walls
When to Call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore
You should contact our professional team immediately if you notice:
- Water stains on your ceilings or walls: This could mean a leak, possibly from your roof or plumbing, that needs attention.
- Unusual creaking or structural noises: If you hear weird sounds, it might be a sign of settling or damage to your home’s structure.
- Ice dam formation on your roof: If not dealt with, ice buildup along your roof’s edge can lead to leaks and other issues.
- Standing water in your basement: Pooling water in the basement could point to drainage problems or even foundation cracks.
- Frozen or burst pipes: When pipes freeze, they can burst, causing severe water damage, so it’s best to catch the problem early!
Our expert team will:
- Respond quickly to your emergency
- Assess all damage thoroughly
- Create a comprehensive restoration plan
- Work directly with your insurance
- Prevent further damage to your property
Preventing Future Snowstorm Damage
1. Pre-Winter Preparation
Take these steps before winter arrives:
- Schedule a professional roof inspection. A pro can identify damage or weak spots before they become costly leaks.
- Proper insulation in your attic can help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing energy bills.
- Clean all gutters and downspouts: Clear gutters prevent water buildup and protect your roof and foundation from damage.
- Seal any foundation cracks: Even tiny cracks can let in water or pests, so sealing them keeps your home safe and dry.
- Install weather stripping around doors and windows: This simple step helps keep drafts out and your heating or cooling in.
2. During Winter Maintenance
You should regularly:
- Monitor snow accumulation on your roof: Too much snow can add extra weight and cause damage, so keep an eye on it during heavy snowfalls.
- Check for ice dam formation: Ice dams can block melting snow from draining properly, leading to leaks, so catch them early before they become a problem.
- Keep gutters clear of ice and snow: Clogged gutters can freeze and create even more significant issues, so make sure they’re free of debris to allow water to flow freely.
- Maintain proper indoor temperature: Consistent indoor temperature helps prevent uneven heating, which can lead to ice dam formation.
- Watch for signs of water damage. Stains, peeling paint, and leaks are early signs of trouble that you should address quickly.
3. Insurance Considerations
After a snowstorm, you should:
- Document all damage with photos: Take clear pictures of any damage to your property so you can show your insurance company exactly what happened.
- Contact your insurance provider promptly: Contact your insurance company immediately to start the claims process.
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs: Hold onto any receipts for quick fixes you make to prevent further damage—these can usually be reimbursed.
- Work with professional restoration services: Hiring professionals can help ensure repairs are done safely and correctly, saving you hassle in the long run.
- Understand your policy’s coverage limits: Take a moment to review your policy so you know what’s covered and can avoid surprises.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Keep these items ready during winter:
- Battery-powered emergency radio
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid supplies
- Warm blankets and clothing
- Non-perishable food and water
- Essential documents in a waterproof container
- Emergency contact numbers
Why Choose ServiceMaster of Lake Shore?
When you need post-snowstorm restoration in Chicago, our team offers:
- 24/7 emergency response: We’re here for you anytime, day or night because emergencies don’t wait.
- Certified restoration experts: Our team is trained, experienced, and certified to handle all restoration work.
- Advanced water extraction equipment: We use the latest tools to remove water quickly and minimize damage.
- Comprehensive damage assessment: We thoroughly inspect your property to identify all areas affected and create a clear action plan.
- Direct insurance billing: We handle the paperwork and work directly with your insurance company to make the process smoother.
- Local expertise with Chicago winters: We understand the unique challenges of harsh Chicago winters and how they can impact your home or business.
Contact Us for Emergency Response
Don’t wait until minor problems become major disasters.
Call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore immediately if you notice any signs of snow storm damage.
Our experienced team stands ready to help you recover from winter storm damage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call us at (312) 707-8597 for immediate assistance with:
- Water damage restoration
- Structural drying
- Ice dam removal
- Emergency board-up services
- Complete property restoration
Remember, the sooner you address snowstorm damage, the better your chance of preventing long-term problems.
Trust Chicago’s winter weather experts at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore to protect and restore your property.
Important Chicago Winter Resources
City Services
- Chicago Snow Command Center: 311
- Chicago Emergency Management: 312-746-9111
- Streets and Sanitation Snow Removal: 312-744-4600
- Commonwealth Edison (Power Outages): 1-800-EDISON-1
- Peoples Gas Emergency Line: 866-556-6002
Weather Updates
Community Support
- Chicago Warming Centers Locator: 311
- American Red Cross of Chicago: 312-729-6100
- Chicago Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
For 24/7 emergency water damage and restoration services in Chicago, contact ServiceMaster of Lake Shore at (312) 707-8597.
Our experienced team is ready to help you recover quickly and efficiently from winter storm damage.
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