Snow: It’s pretty until it’s a pain

By Stephanie McLain, Claims Adjuster

There are two types of people in this world. Those that love the snow and all of its storybook beauty, and those that would rather never catch a single snowflake on their tongue. I think we can all agree that a freshly dusted roof is quaint to say the least, but is the pretty view enough to excuse the damages that it can trigger?  Although light and fluffy in small amounts, roofs can easily be damaged as a result of the weight of the snow or ice accumulating on the shingles.

Winter roof damage is additionally concerning if you’ve had any wind or hail damage earlier in the year that hasn’t been repaired yet. Previous damages weaken the structure, then the snow comes and sits on it. Imagine you fractured your leg and an elephant comes to rest on it. You now have a broken leg. That may be a bit of an extreme comparison, but you get the gist.

The weight of snow isn’t your only concern. If your gutters are backed up with leaves from the trees around the house, you have a risk of your gutters and downspouts backing up with water and freezing. Having ice in your gutters and downspouts can not only cause roof damage but can also harm the gutters themselves because ice is so difficult to remove.

If you begin to notice leaks or water marks, the damage is already done and preventative measures need to be in place as soon as possible.

If the snow hasn’t settled in yet, be sure to double-check the roof and gutters for damages or clogs so that you can get ahead of any potential winter damage. For more information check out the article that inspired this post by HomeAdvisor: https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/winter-roof-damage/

Stephanie McLain

Tech enthusiast (not pro), photographer hobbyist, boy mom, animal lover, and Insurance Adjuster

When Stephanie isn’t at work she’s trying new things from food, tech, games, hair colors, etc. Stephanie and her husband of 2 years live with their 2 boys, 1 fostered cousin, 2 dogs, 1 snake, and 1 fostered bearded dragon. Her goals are to experience the best life has to offer. They like to explore as a family everything from the outdoors, new towns, new games, or even new concepts or ideas for the house.

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Snow on Roof

Time to Clean those Gutters

by Terri Mooney-Hooker, Administrative Coordinator

Spring is here! It’s time to consider a little preventative home maintenance. One important item to not overlook is the gutters on your home. Why, you may ask? Because a debris-clogged gutter can cause all kinds of problems from a leaky roof or even water damage to the interior or the exterior of your home. Also, it could make a nice nesting place for pests, rodents, mold, and honeycombs from bee infestations.

So, you may wonder, “what is the best time of year to clean out the gutters,” and, “what can I do about it?” Before trying to accomplish this feat on your own, you may want to consider hiring an expert. The cost of a gutter cleaning may run anywhere from $75 to $225, depending on the home; length of the gutters; height of the home; and scope of the work.

Here are a few to-do lists you can keep handy:

  • Try to have the gutters cleaned at least twice a year.
  • Consider cover screens or gutter covers. These could run anywhere from $1500 to $2500, depending on the size of the home, as well as the length of the gutters.
  • Before hiring a professional, always check to make sure they carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance for any employees they may bring to the job with them.

And while you’re at it, you may want to consider a few other home-related tasks:

  • Swapping out the batteries in all smoke detectors in your home. (If you did not check the batteries during Daylight Saving Time weekend, why not check them now?)
  • Changing and/or replacing light bulbs on porches and patios.

Sources:  Angie’s List 2013 and HarryHelmet.com

HeadshotAbout Terri

Terri is the Administrative Coordinator at MAX. She performs all administrative duties, and helps out in other areas of the company when needed. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband, her children, two cats, and her extended family and friends. She is huge movie goer and an avid animal lover.