Protecting Your Home from Lake Effect Snow
Living in Upstate New York means dealing with lake effect snow—sometimes measuring in feet rather than inches. The intense snowfall from Lakes Ontario and Erie can create unique challenges for homeowners. Proper preparation can help prevent costly damage and insurance claims.
Understanding Lake Effect Snow
Lake effect snow occurs when cold air moves across the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes, picking up moisture and depositing it as intense, localized snowfall. Areas like Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, and the Tug Hill Plateau regularly receive some of the highest annual snowfall totals in the eastern United States.
Roof Snow Load Concerns
Heavy snow accumulation can put tremendous stress on your roof. While most homes are built to handle typical snow loads, extreme lake effect events can exceed these limits.
- Warning signs: Doors that stick, cracks appearing in walls or ceilings, creaking sounds from the roof
- Safe removal: Use a roof rake from the ground to remove snow. Never climb on an icy roof.
- Professional help: For significant accumulation, consider hiring professionals with proper safety equipment
Ice Dam Prevention
Ice dams form when heat escaping from your attic melts snow on the roof. The water runs down to the colder eaves and refreezes, creating a dam that can force water under shingles and into your home.
- Insulation: Proper attic insulation keeps heat in your living space, not escaping through the roof
- Ventilation: Adequate attic ventilation keeps the roof deck cold
- Heat cables: Electric heat cables can help prevent ice buildup in problem areas
- Clear gutters: Clean gutters in fall to ensure proper drainage (see our fall maintenance tips)
Frozen Pipe Prevention
Water damage from frozen and burst pipes is one of the most common—and expensive—winter insurance claims.
- Insulate pipes: Especially those in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages
- Keep heat on: Maintain at least 55°F even when away
- Let faucets drip: During extreme cold, a slight drip can prevent freezing
- Know your shutoff: Know where your main water shutoff is located to minimize damage if a pipe bursts
Generator Considerations
Lake effect storms can knock out power for extended periods. A generator can keep your heating system running and prevent frozen pipes.
- Never run generators indoors or in attached garages
- Keep generators at least 20 feet from windows and doors
- Have a carbon monoxide detector (required by Amanda's Law)
- Store fuel safely and have enough on hand
Insurance Coverage Considerations
Most homeowners policies cover damage from:
- Weight of ice and snow
- Water damage from ice dams
- Burst pipes (if you've maintained adequate heat)
However, damage from lack of maintenance or failure to heat your home may not be covered. Review your policy to understand your coverage.
Be Prepared
The Steele Agency can help you review your homeowners insurance to ensure you have adequate coverage for winter weather damage. Contact us to discuss your coverage and get tips for protecting your home.
