The Hidden Dangers of Freezing Rain to Your Home: How SERVPRO Team Cox Can Help

2/20/2025 (Permalink)

When winter weather strikes, homeowners often worry about snow and ice, but one of the most dangerous and overlooked threats is freezing rain. Unlike snow, freezing rain forms a thin layer of ice that can coat every surface, creating hazards both outside and inside your home. As SERVPRO®, we’ve seen firsthand the damage freezing rain can cause. From roof collapses to burst pipes, the effects can be costly and dangerous. In this blog, we’ll break down the hidden dangers of freezing rain, how it can impact your home, and what steps you can take to protect your property.

What Is Freezing Rain?

Freezing rain occurs when raindrops fall through a layer of cold air near the ground, causing them to freeze upon contact with surfaces. Unlike sleet, which falls as ice pellets, freezing rain hits the ground as liquid and then forms a layer of ice. This ice buildup can coat trees, power lines, roofs, and driveways, creating hazardous conditions and structural risks.

How Freezing Rain Can Damage Your Home

1. Roof Damage and Collapse

One of the most immediate dangers of freezing rain is the additional weight it adds to your roof. Just a half-inch of ice can add hundreds of pounds of weight, which can strain the structural integrity of your home. Flat roofs and older homes are particularly vulnerable. If the weight becomes too great, it can lead to roof collapse, causing extensive damage to the interior of your home.

2. Ice Dams and Water Intrusion

Freezing rain can also contribute to ice dams, which occur when ice forms at the edge of your roof and prevents melting snow from draining properly. As water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep under shingles and into your home, causing water damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation. Left unchecked, this moisture can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks to your family.

3. Burst Pipes and Plumbing Issues

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 can freeze and burst, causing significant water damage. Even a small crack in a pipe can release gallons of water into your home, damaging flooring, drywall, and personal belongings.

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. Additionally, homeowners often turn to alternative heating methods such as space heaters or fireplaces, which can pose fire hazards if not used properly.

5. Foundation and Structural Damage

Prolonged exposure to ice and water can weaken your home’s foundation and exterior walls. As ice expands and contracts, it can create cracks and gaps that allow water to seep into your home. Over time, this moisture can compromise the structural integrity of your foundation, leading to costly repairs.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Home

While freezing rain is unpredictable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of damage to your home. Here are some proactive measures recommended by SERVPRO Team Cox:

• Inspect Your Roof: 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 to allow proper drainage.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks 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 Overhanging Branches: Trim tree branches that hang over your home or power lines to reduce the risk of ice-related damage.
• Install a Backup Power Source: Consider installing a backup generator to keep your heating system running during power outages.
• Use Roof Rakes: If ice dams form on your roof, use a roof rake to remove snow and ice from the edges. Avoid using sharp tools that could damage your shingles.
• Maintain Proper Insulation: Ensure that your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat loss and minimize the risk of ice dams.

What to Do If Your Home Is Damaged by Freezing Rain

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:

1. Ensure Safety First: If your roof has collapsed or there is significant structural damage, evacuate your home and contact emergency services. Avoid entering areas with standing water if electrical outlets or appliances are submerged.
2. Shut Off Utilities: Turn off the main water supply to prevent further flooding if a pipe has burst. If you suspect electrical damage, turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
3. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Be sure to document both the exterior and interior of your home.
4. 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.
5. Call SERVPRO Team Cox: Our experienced team is available 24/7 to respond to water damage emergencies. We’ll assess the damage, extract water, and begin the drying and restoration process to get your home back to pre-damage condition.

Why Choose SERVPRO Team Cox?

At SERVPRO Team Cox, we understand the unique challenges that freezing rain presents to homeowners in the Carolinas. Our team is equipped with the latest tools and technology to handle water damage, mold remediation, and structural repairs. We take pride in our quick response times and commitment to restoring your home as efficiently as possible.

When you choose SERVPRO Team Cox, you’re choosing a team that cares. We know how stressful it can be to deal with unexpected damage, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the restoration process. Our trained professionals will treat your home with the care and respect it deserves, ensuring that the job is done right the first time. Call us at 704-393-7890.