As a trailer owner, it is imperative to avoid ice damming, whether your insurance covers it 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 for damage 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 form when snow sits on a roof for extended periods. They are often found on the trailer’s roof, where snow first collects during a storm.
As the snow melts, the water runs toward the colder edges of the roof and refreezes into a ridge of ice. Meltwater then pools behind that ridge and can work its way in under a seam or through an opening like a skylight or vent. The ice and trapped water also add weight to the roof. 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 gutters and drip rails are clear of debris to assist water and ice in getting away from the trailer. A roof inspection is also part of winterizing your trailer.
Keep your trailer indoors or covered during the off-season.
The most effective 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 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. Use a soft broom or a plastic roof rake from a ladder or the ground, and never walk on a snowy or icy roof. Avoid metal shovels, which can tear the roof membrane.
Purchase a trailer cover
The best way to give yourself good odds against ice damming, leakage or seepage is to cover the roof entirely. Water can’t get into the trailer if it can’t reach your windows, vents and skylights. Covers come in all shapes and sizes. See our picks for the best trailer covers for winter storage, or browse the selection 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. If you come across ice damming, start by gently clearing the snow behind the dam with a soft broom or plastic roof rake so the water has less to feed on. Never chip at the ice with sharp or metal tools, as this can puncture the roof. Heat tape can be applied to the affected areas to open a channel so that the trapped water can drain out. You may also use an ice melt product that is labelled safe for your roof material, but avoid rock salt, which is corrosive. 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, our brokers can walk you through what your policy does and does not cover before the snow arrives.
RecProtect specializes in recreational insurance. Get your free trailer insurance quote in less than 30 seconds or call us at 888-887-0881 to speak with a broker.