Ice Storm Resources | ServiceMaster Clean & Restore Sea to Sky

Key Risks

What Ice Storms Can Do to Your Property

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Pipes that freeze and burst can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home in minutes. Prevention and rapid response are critical.

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Ice buildup on roofs can force water under shingles and into your walls and ceilings, causing extensive hidden water damage.

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Extended power loss accelerates freezing of pipes and can affect heating systems — creating compounding damage risks.

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Heavy ice accumulation on roofs can exceed structural limits. Signs of stress include cracking or unusual noises from the roof structure.

Call ServiceMaster at 778-770-1311 if you have water damage from frozen pipes or ice dams
Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks
Let faucets drip slightly to relieve pressure and prevent freezing
Know the location of your main water shut-off valve and how to close it quickly
If a pipe bursts, shut off water immediately at the main valve
If the structure feels unsafe (sounds, cracks), evacuate and call emergency services
Document all damage with photos before cleanup
Contact your insurance company promptly
Keep your property heated to at least 15°C (60°F) even when away

Do NOT use an open flame or heat gun on frozen pipes — fire hazard
Do NOT attempt to remove ice dams yourself — serious fall risk
Do NOT enter rooms with standing water before confirming electricity is off
Do NOT use generators, camp stoves, or barbecues indoors — carbon monoxide
Do NOT assume burst pipe water damage is minor — it spreads rapidly through structures
Do NOT ignore ceiling stains — this often indicates ice dam water intrusion