Winter has arrived and Tri State Restorations wants to ensure you and your occupants stay safe from cold weather property hazards
Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures may be part of winter, but they can also introduce serious risks to your home or property if not properly managed. From power outages and roof damage to fire and carbon monoxide hazards, winter weather can impact both the structure of a property and the safety of its occupants.
Understanding the most common cold-weather hazards — and knowing how to respond — can help prevent small issues from turning into major emergencies.
Below are the top 10 snow and ice-related property hazards and how Tri State Restorations can help protect your property and those inside it.
1. Power Outages
Heavy snow, ice accumulation, and high winds can bring down power lines, leaving properties without electricity — and without heat.
Why it’s dangerous:
• Frozen pipes
• Loss of heat
• Carbon monoxide risks from improper generator use
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
Tri State Restorations can provide temporary power solutions to keep critical systems running and help prevent secondary damage during outages.
2. Frozen & Burst Pipes
Extended freezing temperatures can cause water inside pipes to freeze, expand, and burst — often inside walls or ceilings where damage isn’t immediately visible.
Warning signs:
• Reduced or no water flow
• Unusual sounds behind walls
• Frost on pipes
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
We respond quickly to mitigate water damage, properly dry affected areas, and prevent secondary issues such as mold growth.
3. Roof Leaks & Structural Damage
Snow and ice add significant weight to roofs. Combined with freeze-thaw cycles, this can lead to cracks, flashing failures, and leaks.
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
We provide temporary board-ups and tarping to protect your property from further water intrusion until permanent repairs can be made.
4. Ice Dams
Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at roof edges, forcing water back under shingles and into the structure.
Common results:
• Ceiling damage
• Insulation saturation
• Hidden mold growth
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
Our team can mitigate resulting water damage, dry hidden cavities, and help prevent long-term issues caused by trapped moisture.
5. Fire Hazards from Heating Sources
Portable heaters, fireplaces, and alternative heating sources are used more frequently in winter — increasing fire risk.
🚨 Safety reminders:
• Never plug heating units into extension cords
• Never leave heaters unattended
• Keep heaters away from combustible materials
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
If fire or smoke damage occurs, we provide emergency response, smoke odor removal, and structural cleaning services.
6. Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Blocked vents, malfunctioning furnaces, or improper use of generators can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Important reminders:
• Never use generators indoors or in garages
• Ensure vents and flues remain clear of snow and ice
• Install and maintain CO detectors
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
After CO-related incidents, we assist with safety evaluations, cleanup, and restoration to ensure the home is safe for re-entry.
7. Ceiling Collapses
Water from roof leaks or burst pipes can saturate ceilings, leading to sudden collapse.
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
We provide emergency stabilization, water extraction, drying, and removal of compromised materials to restore safety.
8. Slips, Falls & Interior Water Intrusion
Tracked-in snow and ice can melt inside buildings, leading to slippery surfaces and hidden water damage.
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
We assist with water extraction, drying, and moisture monitoring to prevent further damage and mold growth.
9. Sewer Backups
Frozen ground and heavy snowmelt can overwhelm sewer systems, causing backups into basements and lower levels.
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
Our team is equipped to handle sewage cleanup safely and thoroughly, protecting occupants from health hazards.
10. Vacant Property Risks
Unoccupied homes or units are especially vulnerable in winter, as issues may go unnoticed for extended periods. Ensure vacant properties are kept heated to avoid frozen pipes or other winter hazards. Learn more about vacant property hazards and how to avoid them here: https://www.tristaterestores.com/vacant-units-hidden-risks-winter-property-pitfalls-to-watch-for/
How Tri State Restorations Can Help:
We respond quickly to emergency calls, secure properties, provide temporary power or protection, and mitigate damage before it spreads.
Staying Safe This Winter
Winter weather brings unique challenges, but proactive awareness and fast response can significantly reduce risk. Simple steps — like monitoring heat, using heating devices safely, and addressing issues early — go a long way toward protecting your property and loved ones.
When winter hazards strike, Tri State Restorations is available 24/7 to assist with emergency response, temporary power, board-ups, water mitigation, and restoration services.
Our goal is to keep your home safe, your occupants protected, and your recovery moving forward — Turning Disaster into Peace of Mind®, one winter storm at a time. Give us a call: 866-818-1949
