Stress vs. Anxiety: How To Know The Difference

Date: April 16, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Stress and anxiety are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. While both are emotional responses, stress is typically caused by an external trigger. Stress is the body’s reaction to a threat, and anxiety is the body’s reaction to stress.

More than three-quarters of adults report symptoms of stress, including headache, tiredness and depression, according to the American Psychological Association. Additionally, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America reported that an estimated 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety.

Knowing the difference between stress and anxiety can help you better manage these common feelings. This article explains the similarities and differences between them.

Comparing Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can both impact your physical and mental health. Each can result in excessive worry, uneasiness, tension, headaches, body pain, high blood pressure, digestive issues, difficulty concentrating and loss of sleep. Although stress and anxiety may present themselves in similar ways, they have key differences.

Stress is typically a direct response to a specific external cause, such as an important work project or an argument with a partner, that often dissipates once the situation has been resolved. Stress can also have positive and negative results. It may inspire you to perform well at a meeting while causing you to lose sleep. Since it’s usually caused by a specific event or threat, stress is typically a short-term response; however, it can become a chronic condition.

On the other hand, anxiety is a feeling of fear, tension or worry in response to a real or perceived threat. It can be accompanied by an increased heart rate, restlessness, sweating, feelings of dread and faster breathing. It is typically defined by constant and excessive worrying that doesn’t go away, even without an identifiable trigger. Anxiety typically lasts longer than stress because it isn’t linked to a specific situation. Some people only experience anxiety occasionally; for others, frequent anxiety can be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

Techniques for Managing Stress and Anxiety

Similar strategies can be used to manage or reduce both stress and anxiety. Consider the following techniques to cope with these feelings:

Keep a journal and write about your feelings in the moment.
Practice positive self-talk.
Use relaxation exercises, such as breathing techniques.
Get regular quality sleep.
Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.
Reach out to friends and family and share how you’re feeling.
Set aside time for hobbies and activities that you enjoy.

If stress or anxiety begins to impact your everyday life, it may be time to talk to a mental health professional. A qualified health professional can help you identify potential triggers and create effective coping strategies to decrease their impact. They may also be able to recommend medications and types of therapies to help alleviate symptoms.

Summary

While stress is typically short-term and easily identifiable, and anxiety can be long-lasting with less clear triggers, they can both have negative impacts on your overall health. Consult a doctor or mental health professional for more guidance on these conditions.

How To Prevent And Mitigate The Risk Of Email Related Cyberattacks

Date: April 9, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Since organizations rely heavily on email to communicate and conduct business operations, cybercriminals commonly target email as an entry point to access networks and breach valuable business data. In fact, 94% of malware is delivered by email, according to Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report.

Following a cybersecurity breach, organizations may suffer financial, reputational and intellectual property loss. Therefore, it is important for businesses to invest in email security and follow best practices to ensure their data and operations are protected from cybersecurity threats.

The following are some email security best practices to prevent and mitigate the risk of email related cyberattacks:

Implement employee training. Investing in a security awareness training program can help employees navigate email security risks by educating them on potential threats and avoiding situations that could put data and networks at risk.
Improve password management. Many people recycle passwords, making it easier for cybercriminals to compromise data across multiple accounts. Employees should use a unique password that contains a combination of upper- and lowercase letters, symbols and numbers, and change their passwords regularly.
Enable multifactor authentication. Multifactor authentication strengthens email security by adding an extra layer of protection. When users log in to their email account, they must complete an additional step, such as entering a unique code sent by text to their smartphone, to gain access.
Be aware of phishing emails. Cybercriminals often impersonate legitimate senders to steal sensitive information, gain access to operational systems or initiate fraudulent payments. Phishing emails often use language that suggests a sense of urgency and pressure users to complete an action quickly.
Encrypt emails, communications and attachments. Encryption can ensure that emails and their attachments are only read and received by the intended person. It can also help prevent malware attacks through email by ensuring that cybercriminals don’t intercept sensitive email data.
Avoid public Wi-Fi. One of the best ways to keep email information safe is to avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi. In addition, investing in a virtual private network, better known as a VPN, can secure an encrypted connection between devices and the internet.
Access email only on company-approved devices. Devices that don’t have the proper email security tools and measures may be vulnerable to cybercriminals. Utilizing company-approved devices for all work-related communications can help ensure emails remain secure.
Utilize endpoint protection solutions. Endpoint protection solutions look for critical information included in emails that appears out of the ordinary, such as an abnormal address, misspelling of words or suspicious links, and then filters them out before they can be received and opened.
Log out of email accounts. Leaving email open on any device accessible to others can lead to security issues.
Back up data regularly. Although the implementation of sound email security practices reduces the potential for loss, vulnerabilities still exist. Therefore, one of the most important security measures to minimize the potential damage and devastation of a ransomware attack is backing up critical files regularly. Copies should be kept in multiple locations, including on physical hardware and in the cloud.

Implementing a robust email security system and utilizing best practices by employees can help stop email-borne threats, prevent cybersecurity risks and reduce strain on organizations’ security teams. For more information on email related cyberattacks or risk management guidance, contact us today.

April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month And We Have Prevention Tips For You

Date: April 2, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize potential distractions behind the wheel. Review the following article for more information on distracted driving and ways you can help prevent it.

Distracted Driving Overview

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, distracted driving refers to any activity that may divert a motorist’s attention from the road. There are three main types of distractions that can interfere with drivers’ attentiveness behind the wheel, including:

Visual distractions—These distractions involve motorists taking their eyes off the road. Some examples of visual distractions include reading emails or text messages, focusing on vehicle passengers, looking at maps or navigation systems, and observing nearby activities (e.g., accidents, traffic stops or roadside attractions) while driving.
Manual distractions—Such distractions entail motorists removing their hands from the steering wheel. Key examples of manual distractions include texting, adjusting the radio, programming navigation systems, eating, drinking or performing personal grooming tasks (e.g., applying makeup) while driving.
Cognitive distractions—These distractions stem from motorists taking their minds off driving. Primary examples of cognitive distractions include talking on the phone, conversing with vehicle passengers or daydreaming while driving.

Regardless of distraction type, distracted driving is a serious safety hazard that contributes to a significant number of accidents on the road. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that more than 2,800 people are killed and 400,000 are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver each year—equating to approximately eight deaths and 1,095 injuries per day. Considering these findings, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent distracted driving.

Distracted Driving Prevention Tips

Whenever you get behind the wheel, keep these distracted driving prevention measures in mind:

Put away your phone. Silence your phone and store it in a location that is out of reach while driving to lower the temptation to check it.
Plan your trip before you leave. Program your navigation system prior to hitting the road to get familiar with your journey and feel confident in your route.
Don’t fumble with your playlist. Select a radio station or plug in a predetermined playlist before driving to limit the need for music adjustments.
Secure passengers. Ensure kids are properly situated in car seats (if needed) with seat belts fastened. Keep pets stationary in the back seat.
Avoid multitasking. Never complete additional tasks—such as eating or personal grooming—behind the wheel.
Stay focused. Concentrate your mind on the road by keeping distracting conversations to a minimum and looking straight ahead.

For additional driver safety tips, contact us today.

Click here for more information on Auto Insurance

5 Spring Storm Safety Tips for Businesses

Date: March 19, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Spring can bring about some of the year’s most dangerous weather and wreak havoc on many aspects of a company’s operations. This article discusses the weather threats to watch out for during spring and spring storm safety tips businesses can take to minimize damage.

Dangerous Spring Weather

Unexpected severe weather increases the risk of property damage, injury and even death. Here are some common types of spring weather events:

Tornadoes—According to AccuWeather, tornadoes are by far the most extreme event in the spring. Winds from tornadoes can exceed 200 miles per hour, sending debris flying.
Thunderstorms—Severe thunderstorms can produce strong winds, large hail and lightning. If lightning strikes in a dry area, fires can occur.
Flooding—Snowmelt, ice jams and heavy rain can produce large amounts of water runoff in a short period of time, resulting in floods.
Blizzards—Snowstorms that occur in the spring may cause power outages or property damage. They can also force businesses to shut down.
Excessive heat—The second half of spring typically brings higher temperatures, leading to heat-related disorders or illnesses if employees work in outdoor environments.

Minimizing Risks

While springtime weather may be unpredictable, businesses can minimize risks to both people and property by preparing for all situations. Business leaders should consider the following spring storm safety tips:

1) Develop a plan. If employees have to travel to work, severe spring weather could put them in danger on the road. In addition, shelter-in-place orders or power outages could also pose threats to onsite employees, clients and customers. Having a plan in place can help everyone remain safe during an emergency. Outline what employees should do in different circumstances—such as a power loss—and have a communication protocol. Conduct drills until the plan becomes second nature.

2) Keep an emergency kit on hand. This kit should contain emergency supplies, including flashlights, water, a first-aid kit, blankets, extra batteries, a toolset and current contact information for state and local entities.

3) Secure the property and outdoor assets. Dead trees, weak structures and unsecured materials can become airborne hazards during windstorms, damaging buildings or external systems. If severe weather is in the forecast, complete preventive maintenance, close windows securely, bring outdoor furniture inside and clear out storm drains.

4) Back up data. Severe weather can cause power outages and may physically damage equipment. Back up critical data often to help smoothly rebuild systems.

5) Obtain proper insurance coverage. An experienced insurance broker can help business leaders understand and plan for the impacts of catastrophic weather. Complete a coverage review to ensure there are no gaps in coverage that will result in an uncovered loss.

By minimizing the opportunity for property damage, preparing employees to act and working with an experienced broker to ensure the appropriate insurance coverage is in place, businesses can better mitigate risks during the springtime. For more information, contact us today.

Snowmelt Prevention Tips To Protect Your Home

Date: February 26, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

As winter ends and temperatures begin to rise, the accumulating water from melting snow and ice—also known as snowmelt—can lead to significant propery damage.

Don’t let snowmelt wreak havoc on your home. Review the following guidance for snowmelt prevention recommendations.

Clear snow from your home’s foundation. Shovel snow away from your home, including stairwells, window wells, downspouts and doors to help prevent water from seeping in through cracks.
Maintain your roof and gutters. Any heavy snow that has accumulated on your roof should be cleared away to avoid water damage. Keep your gutters clear of debris to avoid ice dams— melted snow that refreezes at night, causing gutter clogs.
Ensure proper drainage. Make sure your downspout drains away from your home, and keep any street storm sewer drains clear of snow to prevent buildup and freezing.
Check your sump pump. Test to see that your sump pump is in good working order in case your home experiences flooding. If you notice any small leaks, take care of them before they become a bigger hazard.

Trust the Professionals

Qualified contractors can help you in the most crucial areas of your home, including plumbing and heating. If you are unable or unsure of how to remove snow from your roof, fix a leaky pipe, seal windows and doors, or simply test your water heater, contact a professional to ensure you and your home stay safe from harm.

In addition to utilizing a qualified contractor to assist with home maintenance and repairs, be sure to contact the insurance professionals at Rinehart, Walters & Danner to ensure your home will be adequately covered in the event of potential damages and disasters.

For additional household maintenance guidance and homeowners insurance solutions, contact us today.

Snow Shoveling Safety Reminders For You and Your Family

Date: February 19, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

When winter arrives—often bringing low temperatures and snowfall with it—the seasonal transition may require you to start periodically shoveling snow. Although this task is necessary to help clear pathways and prevent ice buildup, shoveling snow comes with serious safety risks.

After all, repeated shoveling requires significant physical exertion, which—when paired with the frigid outdoor elements—can take a dangerous toll on your body. That’s why it’s crucial to utilize proper precautions while you shovel snow.

Review the following guidance to learn more about the risks of shoveling snow and what you can do to protect yourself.

The Risks of Shoveling Snow

The most prevalent risks associated with shoveling snow include:

Sprains and strains—Because shoveling requires you to repeatedly move potentially heavy amounts of snow in an awkward position for an extended period, this task can easily cause sprains and strains if you aren’t careful. These injuries typically occur in your wrists, shoulders, back and ankles.
Hypothermia—Working in cold weather can heighten your risk of experiencing hypothermia, which occurs when your body’s core temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, drowsiness, shallow breathing, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination and unconsciousness. Severe cases of hypothermia can be fatal.
Frostbite—Working in chilly conditions can also increase your risk of developing frostbite, which entails a freezing of the skin and its underlying tissues. Frostbite can result in stinging, numbness and blistering in the affected areas (usually your fingers, toes or face). If left untreated, frostbite can cause permanent tissue damage.
Heart complications—If you overexert yourself while shoveling snow, the cold weather could contribute to a sharp rise in your heart rate and blood pressure, thus decreasing your overall blood supply and potentially causing a heart attack—which could be fatal.

General Best Practices

Here are some basic safety precautions to keep in mind when shoveling snow:

Avoid shoveling immediately after eating or while smoking.
Take a few minutes to stretch before you begin shoveling to better prepare your body for the physical demands of the task.
Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift snow while shoveling, use a smaller shovel or only partially fill your shovel with snow to avoid lifting too much at a time. In addition, be sure to lift with your legs rather than your back.
Don’t overexert yourself. Pay attention to how you feel while you shovel—never work to the point of exhaustion. If you begin to feel overly fatigued, stop shoveling and inform your supervisor.
When handling large amounts of snow, consider utilizing a snow blower rather than a shovel to avoid the extra labor. However, make sure you are properly trained to do so. Always consult your supervisor before making any equipment changes.
Make sure you know the key signs of a heart attack (e.g., chest discomfort, shortness of breath and pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach). If you start to experience these symptoms, stop shoveling and call 911 (or ask someone to call for you, if necessary).

How to Prevent Hypothermia and Frostbite

Be sure to implement these additional safety measures to prevent hypothermia and frostbite:

Always check the weather before working outdoors to properly prepare yourself. Try to limit your time shoveling if weather conditions are extremely cold, wet or windy.
Make sure you dress appropriately for the task at hand. Wear several loose layers of clothing, a warm hat that fully covers your head and ears, mittens (rather than gloves) and thick socks that will keep your feet dry.

Safety First

Your safety is our first priority. Talk to your supervisor you have any further questions or concerns about shoveling snow.

Snow shoveling safety tips for a safer winter – From our friends at EMC Insurance

Celebrate National Cancer Prevention Month With These Tips

Date: February 5, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Cancer consistently ranks as one of the deadliest diseases in the United States and throughout the world. In recognition of the seriousness of cancer, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) recognizes February as National Cancer Prevention Month. This campaign focuses on providing guidance for preventing or at least limiting one’s risk of developing cancer.

This February, recognize National Cancer Prevention Month by considering the following lifestyle choices and how they might reduce your cancer-related risk:

Avoid smoking. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and smoking cigarettes is the top factor for developing it. By quitting, avoiding starting this habit in the first place and limiting exposure to secondhand smoke, you can reduce your risk of developing cancer.
Protect your skin. Skin cancer is common and can develop through exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Limit your risk of developing skin cancer by applying sunscreen and limiting direct exposure to the sun, such as by staying in the shade or wearing hats and long sleeves.
Limit alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of developing several types of cancer, including mouth and throat, liver, colon and breast cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight. People who are overweight or obese may be more likely to develop many different types of cancer.

In addition to the aforementioned precautions, you should also follow experts’ advice on screenings, as such practices can help detect cancer in its early stages and enable optimal treatment and recovery potential.

Visit the AACR’s website for more information on National Cancer Prevention Month.

7 Money Saving Tips for Home Insurance Buyers in 2025

Date: January 29, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Many significant trends and patterns impacting the homeowners insurance market may be beyond the control of the average policyholder; however, policyholders can still take steps to mitigate rising premiums. Retaining adequate insurance protection is vital for financial security, even during difficult times.

The following strategies may help home insurance buyers lower their rates or limit upcoming increases:

Weatherproof your home. Homeowners may want to consider upgrading their roofs, affixing storm shutters on doors and windows and removing trees or flammable brush from around their properties.
Upgrade security. When quoting rates for homeowners, carriers may be more likely to offer favorable costs when homes include certain security features, such as deadbolt locks, home security systems and smart smoke alarms.
Update coverage. Many homeowners may explore the possibility of changing their coverage to achieve lower rates amid rising premiums.
Bundle policies. This refers to the process of purchasing multiple types of insurance from the same carrier, which can often unlock discounts and overall cost savings for policyholders.
Limit liability risks. Reducing the possibility of being liable for other parties’ losses, such as by restricting access to attractive nuisances (e.g., swimming pools and playground equipment) and refraining from hosting large gatherings, can lead to savings.
Research discounts. Many insurance carriers may offer discounts, such as if a policyholder has not filed a claim against their coverage for a certain period of time (e.g., at least three years).
Improve your credit score. A homeowner’s credit score may be used to calculate what is known as a credit-based insurance score in most states.

Ultimately, a trusted insurance professional is often a home insurance buyers best option for assessing various home insurance options available on the market. Our agency is here to help you navigate the changing insurance market. Contact us today.

How to Avoid Common Personal Insurance Gaps

Date: January 22, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Insurance plays a crucial role in your life’s financial security and stability. The various policies and coverages that make up your insurance portfolio can potentially ensure you’re able to endure accidents, natural disasters and unexpected circumstances that might otherwise incur devastating financial losses. These risks may be particularly prevalent for those who fail to identify and address common coverage gaps.

This article can help you understand how and why specific gaps in your insurance could have significant financial ramifications for you and your family. Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance is focused on assisting you in not only identifying and understanding these possible pitfalls but also filling them and ensuring that your personal lines insurance portfolio offers fortified financial protection.

Common Personal Insurance Gaps

Your personal lines insurance portfolio may consist of several types of policies, each covering risks and exposures that might otherwise lead to significant financial losses. Despite how you may have assembled an appropriate collection of policies, each one might still be prone to having coverage gaps that could leave you vulnerable to unexpected situations. The aftermath of an accident or other losses is the worst time to realize you’re underinsured, so it’s essential to identify and address gaps before coverage is needed.

Consider the following common personal insurance coverage gaps:

Home insurance

Also known as homeowners insurance, this type of policy can be rife with coverage gaps if you’re not careful and do not work with a qualified professional. Be particularly mindful of the following possible gaps:
o Natural disaster exclusions—Certain natural disasters are often explicitly excluded from standard home insurance policies. For example, flood insurance must typically be purchased separately. Homeowners in certain parts of the country may also need coverage for earthquakes and windstorms.
o Coming up short of the 80% rule—Insurance carriers typically enforce the 80% rule, which states that homeowners must retain enough coverage to pay for at least 80% of the estimated cost of a complete rebuild of their home. Failing to do this could lead to lesser payouts following covered losses.
o Neglecting scheduled property coverage—Home insurance typically includes some coverage for personal possessions, but limits are often insufficient for those with significant valuables, such as fine art and jewelry. Additional coverage options, such as scheduled property coverage, may be necessary to ensure policyholders can recoup losses involving treasured items.

Auto insurance

These policies may also be referred to as car insurance and are often legally required. Still, while one of the most commonly purchased types of insurance, auto coverage is easily misunderstood, necessitating awareness of the following possible errors:
o Fulfilling only minimum requirements—While most states require motorists to carry certain levels of coverage, such as third-party liability coverage, simply complying with such mandates may not be enough. For example, many states do not require collision coverage, but if you crash your car, this part of a policy could be critical in ensuring you can repair or replace your vehicle.
o Lacking gap coverage—Aptly named, lacking this component of an auto insurance policy could represent a significant hole in your coverage. Gap coverage can be critical in offsetting losses if you’ve financed your vehicle. If your car is totaled or stolen and you still owe more on your loan than the vehicle’s current value, this coverage can make up the difference and limit out-of-pocket losses.

Life insurance

The right life insurance policy can provide financial stability and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. However, insufficient or outdated coverage could have dire ramifications, exacerbating the already difficult circumstances of a grieving family. Avoid this hardship by considering the following potential shortcomings in your coverage:
o Relying on group coverage—Life insurance offered by an employer can be a valuable employee benefit; however, one should not depend on this as your only form of coverage. Group life insurance plans are typically tied to employment status, meaning that being let go or retiring would result in no remaining coverage.
o Insufficient limits—As a person’s circumstances change, they may need to adjust their life insurance policies. For example, having a child or gaining a dependent typically increases expected expenses. Without making adjustments to life insurance, payouts could be insufficient to provide for a deceased’s family.

Personal umbrella insurance

This type of insurance may not be as well known as others, but for many people, it can be just as important. An umbrella insurance policy casts an additional layer of financial protection over various liabilities that might exceed the coverage limits in other policies. Consider how personal umbrella insurance might help fill the following coverage gaps:
o Inadequate auto insurance—Even if you’ve fulfilled your auto insurance policy’s minimum liability coverage requirements, severe accidents could have greater costs. If several people are severely injured, many vehicles are damaged or losses otherwise amount to a sum greater than your auto coverage can handle, personal umbrella insurance can offer additional aid and limit out-of-pocket losses.
o Insufficient home insurance—Certain accidents and other incidents at your home could be exceptionally costly. For instance, if your home has attractive nuisances, such as a swimming pool, or you regularly host large gatherings, accidents affecting multiple guests or inflicting significant injuries could quickly exhaust the liability coverage limits in your home insurance policy. Without umbrella coverage, you’d be saddled with paying the remainder out of pocket.

How to Avoid Coverage Gaps

Now that you have a better understanding of common coverage gaps and the potential consequences of being underinsured, you can take steps to shore up your insurance portfolio. Consider the following steps:

Appraise your belongings. One of the most effective ways to ensure you’re adequately covered is by being current on the value of what you’re insuring. Save receipts and document the condition of your possessions, and consider enlisting the assistance of professionals to appraise certain items, such as fine art and jewelry.
Assess liability risks. Whether considering home, renters, auto or umbrella coverage, certain policyholders may need to manage greater liability risk levels. For example, if you have children or pets, you may want to retain more coverage in your home insurance policy. Similarly, additional financial security may be advisable if you have a teen driver listed on your policy.
Consider recent life events. When your circumstances change, you should revisit your insurance policies. Getting married, having a child, buying a home or car, or moving should all trigger this process. Neglecting to account for life events in your insurance portfolio could lead to you being underinsured and your policies’ limits being incapable of covering losses.
Understand endorsements and options. Familiarize yourself with all of the features and enhancements that might be available. While a standard home insurance policy may be sufficient most of the time, specific exclusions, such as for floods and hurricanes, could mean the difference between weathering a financial storm alone or being buoyed by financial aid.
Enlist assistance. The knowledge and experience of a qualified insurance professional can be invaluable as you seek to purchase or reassess the components of your personal lines coverage.

Get the Right Coverage

In the wake of an accident, damage to your home or other incident involving financial losses, the last thing you want to hear is that your insurance isn’t capable of what you expected. Coverage gaps can quickly lead to unexpected expenses, potentially incurring far-reaching fiscal consequences that might upend your entire life.

At Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance, we’re committed to making sure that you and your family are adequately insured. Contact us today to learn more about personal lines coverage options and to ensure you’ve identified and remedied any coverage gaps.

How To Prevent Ice Dams and Homeowners Insurance Claims

Date: January 15, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

This crazy up and down weather we’ve had lately can really reek havoc on our homes. Between the arctic chill and freezing pipes, to the heat wave and snow melt we don’t know if it’s Winter or Spring. One think to keep an eye on is your roof. All this thawing and freezing can create ice dams on your roof which can lead to major water damage.

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof. It prevents melting snow and water from draining off the roof. The water that does not drain can leak into your home and damage your walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas. Ice dams are typically caused by uneven heat loss from your home in wintry conditions such as snow, heat melting the snow, and cold temperatures re-freezing melted snow. A common cause of heat loss is due to inadequate attic insulation or from warm air seeping into the attic from living spaces below. This causes the roof to warm and melt the snow and then re-freeze before the melted snow slides off the roof. If this cycle repeats enough you get an ice dam and water collecting behind it.

How To Prevent Ice Dams

There are steps you can take to help prevent ice dams on your home.

Keep the attic well ventilated.
Seal air leaks to prevent warm air leakage from plumbing vents, junction boxes from ceiling fixtures and attic hatches.
Keep the attic floor well insulated to minimize the amount of heat rising into the attic from below. (between 16 and 22 inches of insulation).
Clean leaves and other debris from gutters before the first snow. This will help prevent ice buildup in your gutters.
Consider using an ice shield under your shingles when your house is getting re-roofed.
Use a roof rake to clear the snow above the gutter. Clear as much as three to four feet above the gutter to allow water to drain freely into the gutter.

Don’t let this crazy Ohio weather turn into a disaster for your home. Ice dams can cause serious damage to your home which can turn into a large homeowners insurance claim. Take the extra time before the bad weather to do the necessary preventative measures.

Share this information with your friends and family to help them prevent ice dams.