February 24, 2003—The heavy snow that has buried much of the Northeast can pose a threat to businesses both as it builds up and as it melts. The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) says the three most important things to do are:
- Watch for snow accumulation on the leeward (downwind) side of a higher- level roof, where blowing snow will collect. For safe removal that won’t damage a roof, consult a roofing contractor for a referral.
- Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls. Melting snow can lead to water damage and moisture intrusion.
- Keep buildings well ventilated to maintain a temperature close to that of the outdoors and minimize the risk of ice dams forming. Warm upper floors melt snow on the roof, causing water to run down and refreeze at the roof’s edge, where it’s much cooler. If ice builds up and blocks water from draining, water is forced under the roof covering.
For more information on how to protect businesses from freezing weather and other problems such as bursting pipes, visit the IBHS or call toll-free 866/657-IBHS (4247).
