A new year and winter season bring with them a reminder about the importance of winter weather awareness, particularly when it comes to frozen pipes and ice dams. These two phenomena can cause significant water and structural damage, leading to costly repairs and insurance claims.

According to State Farm, from August 2022 to August 2023, they paid out over $806 million for more than 32,000 claims related to frozen pipe and water damage. The average claim amounted to $25,000. Comparing this to the previous year, from 2021 to 2022, State Farm paid $181 million for approximately 9,000 claims. The numbers clearly highlight the increase in frequency and severity of these issues.

Among the states most affected by these losses, Georgia took the top spot with $100 million in claim costs, followed by Illinois with $78 million, Tennessee with $62 million, Texas with $58 million, and New York with $45 million. These figures demonstrate that frozen pipes and ice dams are not limited to specific regions but can impact areas across the country.

The variability of winter weather patterns means that frozen pipe and ice dam losses can vary each year. No two years are the same, and when weather patterns drastically fluctuate, areas that are not accustomed to sudden temperature drops can suffer catastrophic consequences.

The damage caused by frozen pipes and ice dams can extend far beyond what the average policyholder might imagine. These issues can lead to the destruction of drywall, roofs, foundations, floors, toilets, electrical systems, and personal items. The repairs required to remedy the damage can take weeks or even months to complete.

To prevent frozen pipes, there are several steps homeowners can take. State Farm offers the following tips:

- Insulate pipes in crawl spaces and attics, even in climates where freezing is uncommon.

- Use heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables to wrap around pipes, ensuring they are approved by independent testing organizations.

- Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located, using caulk or insulation.

- Disconnect garden hoses and use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

- Let warm water drip overnight to keep pipes from freezing.

- Keep the thermostat set above 55 degrees, even when away from home.

- Open cabinet doors to allow heat to reach un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

If pipes do freeze, it is important to take appropriate action. State Farm advises:

- Call a plumber if needed and leave the faucets turned on.

- Avoid using flames to thaw pipes, as it can create a fire hazard.

- Consider using a hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe, taking precautions to ensure safety.

- Shut off the water supply at the main shutoff valve in the house if there is a water leak or if pipes have burst.

Ice dams can also cause significant damage. State Farm provides the following DOs and DON'Ts for ice dam prevention:

DO:

- Ensure adequate insulation in the attic space.

- Verify soffit and roof or ridge venting exists for all roof planes.

- Seal and insulate all penetrations, access panels, and electrical fixtures in the attic.

- Discharge all exhaust fans and dryer vents to the outside.

- Keep gutters clean to help drain away ice melt during a thaw.

- Consult a professional to determine and fix the underlying cause of ice dam problems.

DON'T:

- Attempt to break up ice dams or chip away at them, as it can be dangerous and cause shingle damage.

- Install large mechanical equipment or water heaters in attics, as they present fire hazards and increase attic temperatures.

- Routinely use salt or calcium chloride to melt snow on a roof, as they can damage gutters, downspouts, flashings, and nearby vegetation.

Being proactive in preventing frozen pipes and ice dams is crucial for homeowners to avoid costly damage and repairs. By following these tips and taking appropriate action, individuals can protect their homes and minimize the risk of winter-related problems.