How Freezing Rain Can Damage Your Home—And How SERVPRO Team Cox Can Help

2/20/2025 (Permalink)

Winter brings a variety of weather challenges, but few are as deceptively dangerous as freezing rain. Unlike snow or sleet, freezing rain creates a thin, heavy layer of ice that can wreak havoc on homes. From roof damage and burst pipes to power outages and water infiltration, the effects can be both costly and hazardous. At SERVPRO®, we’ve helped countless homeowners recover from the damage caused by freezing rain. In this post, we’ll explore the risks associated with freezing rain, how it can impact your home, and the steps you can take to minimize the damage.

What Is Freezing Rain and Why Is It Dangerous?

Freezing rain forms when raindrops fall through a layer of cold air near the ground, freezing instantly upon contact with surfaces. This creates a clear, smooth layer of ice that can coat everything from roads and sidewalks to trees and homes. Unlike snow or sleet, which can be easily removed, ice clings tightly to surfaces, adding weight and creating slippery, hazardous conditions. While it may look beautiful, this ice can cause significant damage, especially when it accumulates on your roof, gutters, and trees.

The Hidden Dangers of Freezing Rain for Your Home

1. Excess Weight on Your Roof
   Ice is dense and heavy, and even a thin layer can add hundreds of pounds to your roof. This extra weight can strain the structure of your home, leading to cracks, leaks, or even collapse in severe cases. Flat roofs and older homes are particularly vulnerable. As the ice melts and refreezes, it can also damage shingles and create pathways for water to enter your home.
2. Formation of Ice Dams
   Ice dams are one of the most common and damaging effects of freezing rain. They form when ice builds up along the edges of your roof, preventing melting snow and rain from draining properly. As water backs up behind the dam, it can seep under shingles and into your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and electrical systems. Left untreated, this moisture can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks and can be difficult to remediate.
3. Frozen and Burst Pipes
   When freezing rain is accompanied by cold temperatures, your home’s plumbing system is at risk. Pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and exterior walls are particularly vulnerable. As water inside the pipes freezes and expands, it can cause the pipes to burst, releasing large amounts of water into your home. This can lead to flooding, structural damage, and costly repairs.
4. Power Outages and Fire Hazards
   The weight of ice on power lines and tree branches can cause them to break, leading to widespread power outages. Without power, your heating system may fail, increasing the risk of frozen pipes and other cold-weather issues. Additionally, using alternative heat sources like space heaters, fireplaces, or generators can pose fire hazards if not used correctly.
5. Damage to Foundations and Exterior Walls
   Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can weaken your home’s foundation and exterior walls. As ice expands within cracks and crevices, it can cause the gaps to widen, allowing water to seep in. Over time, this moisture can compromise the structural integrity of your home, leading to expensive repairs.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Home

While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to minimize the risk of damage from freezing rain:

• Inspect Your Roof Regularly: Before winter arrives, have your roof inspected for signs of wear and damage. Replace missing or damaged shingles and ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior to prevent cold air from reaching your pipes. Insulate pipes in unheated areas and consider using heat tape for added protection.
• Trim Tree Branches: Trim branches that overhang your home or power lines to reduce the risk of ice-related damage.
• Maintain Proper Insulation: Ensure that your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat loss and minimize the risk of ice dams forming.
• Use a Roof Rake: If ice dams form, use a roof rake to remove snow and ice from the edges of your roof. Avoid using sharp tools that could damage shingles.
• Install a Backup Generator: A backup generator can keep your heating system running during power outages, helping to prevent frozen pipes and other cold-weather issues.

What to Do If Freezing Rain Damages Your Home

Despite your best efforts, freezing rain can still cause unexpected damage. If your home is affected, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize the impact. Here’s what you should do:

• Ensure Your Safety: If there’s significant structural damage or a risk of collapse, evacuate your home and contact emergency services. Avoid standing water if electrical outlets or appliances are submerged.
• Shut Off Utilities: Turn off the main water supply to prevent further flooding if a pipe has burst. If you suspect electrical damage, shut off power at the circuit breaker.
• Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage, both inside and outside your home, for insurance purposes.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Provide them with the documentation you’ve gathered.
• Call SERVPRO Team Cox: Our experienced team is available 24/7 to respond to water and storm damage emergencies. We’ll assess the damage, extract water, and begin the drying and restoration process to return your home to its pre-damage condition.

How SERVPRO Team Cox Can Help

At SERVPRO Team Cox, we understand the stress and disruption that storm damage can cause. Our team of certified professionals is equipped with advanced tools and techniques to handle water extraction, structural drying, mold remediation, and reconstruction. We pride ourselves on our fast response times, exceptional customer service, and commitment to restoring your home quickly and efficiently.

We know that every minute counts when it comes to storm damage. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and begin the restoration process immediately. Our goal is to minimize the disruption to your life and help you get back to normal as quickly as possible. Call us at 803-419-0470.