As a trailer owner, it is imperative to avoid ice damming covered or not. Canada is known for experiencing harsh winter months. Therefore, this issue can arise quickly after a hefty snowfall.
Ice dams can cause detrimental damage to your vehicle if left untreated. To make matters worse, if your trailer is over 25 years of age there is no insurance coverage caused by ice damming.
For this post, we have provided tips below to help our clients recognize and take the proper precautions to avoid ice dams forming on your trailer this upcoming winter.
What Is Ice Damming and How Can It Negatively Affect Your RV?
Ice dams can form because of build-up of water and snow for extended periods. They are often found on the trailers roof, where snow often first hits during a storm.
These ice dams can add weight to the roof, and with melting and freezing creates an ice dam which water will normally enter under a shingle or through an opening like a skylight.. If this issue occurs, you will have not only exterior damage to worry about but also interior damage.
Ways You Can Prevent Ice Damming On Your RV
Inspect your roof for damage regularly and make any necessary repairs before winter.
The roof of your RV is typically the initial place ice dams will form. Thus, it is vital to ensure that any cracks around any openings like a skylight or vent are repaired before snowfall begins. Please also ensure that all eave troughs are clear of debris to assist water and ice in getting away from the trailer.
Keep your trailer indoors or covered during the off-season.
The most efficent way to avoid storm damage is to keep your RV in a proper shelter. Keep your vehicle safe this winter, whether in a garage, covered driveway, or storage center. We know that this is not a feasible option for all RV owners, so it may be worth investing in a high-quality cover.
Remove snow from your RV’s roof immediately after a snowstorm.
As heavy snow freezes over time in extreme weather conditions, you will want to ensure that your roof is kept clean. Doing so will slow down and prevent ice dams from forming on your vehicle.
Purchase a trailer cover
To give yourself the best odds against Ice Damming, leakage or seepage is to cover the roof entirely with a cover. The water can’t get in to the trailer if it can’t reach your windows, vents, sun roofs. Covers come in all shapes and sizes and can be found at RVCover.
Ways You Can Remove Harmful Ice Dams On Your RV
We understand that no matter how many preventative measures you take, ice dams may still form on your RV. Suppose you come across ice damming issues in the future. In that case, we recommend applying blunt tools or heat tape to the affected areas so that the excess water can drain out. You may also attempt to use RV-safe snow melt products, particularly those made with calcium chloride. If all else fails, call an expert. There is no harm in contacting a certified specialist to assist you with this process.
How an Insurance Policy Can Help Protect your RV
While ice damming is considered preventable with proper maintenance and care for your RV, some insurers may provide protection. If you are unsure about possible coverage or have a new travel trailer or fifth wheel, call us today. RecProtect offers a no-obligation quote process that gives you results in less than 30 seconds.