Ice Storm Damage: Protecting Your Oklahoma Home This Winter
Oklahoma has seen serious ice storms, and Southwest Oklahoma is not immune. A coating of ice adds a lot of weight to trees, power lines and gutters, and a long outage can leave homes without heat for days.
The damage usually comes from three things: falling limbs, frozen pipes and water getting in where ice builds up.
Before the storm
- Trim dead or overhanging limbs away from the roof and power lines.
- Clean gutters so melting ice can drain.
- Insulate exposed pipes and know where your main water shut-off is.
- Have flashlights, batteries, blankets and a safe backup heat plan.
- Never run a generator or grill indoors or in a garage.
Falling trees and limbs
Ice-loaded limbs can break through roofs and windows. Stay out of rooms where a tree has come through the roof, and never go near downed power lines. Emergency tarping and board-up keeps snow, ice and rain out until repairs can be made.
Frozen and burst pipes
Long outages are when pipes are most at risk. If the power will be out for a long time and the house is getting cold, shutting off the main water and draining the lines can prevent bursts. Read our guide to preventing frozen pipes in Lawton, and if one does burst, follow the burst pipe checklist.
Ice dams and roof leaks
When ice and snow melt on a warm roof and refreeze at the cold edge, they can form a dam that pushes water under shingles. Watch for ceiling stains along exterior walls after a winter storm and have the attic checked for wet insulation.
After the storm
- Walk around the house and photograph any damage.
- Check the attic, ceilings, crawl space and under sinks for water.
- Call your insurance company to report damage.
- Get water extraction and drying started right away.
Storm help in Lawton
ICR responds 24/7 across Lawton and Southwest Oklahoma for storm damage and water damage.
Need help in Lawton right now?
ICR crews respond 24/7 across Lawton, Fort Sill and Comanche County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for a neighbor’s tree that falls on my house?
Often your own homeowners policy handles damage to your home regardless of whose tree it was, though negligence can change that. Ask your insurer about your specific situation.
Should I knock ice off my roof?
No. Climbing on an icy roof is dangerous, and chipping ice can damage shingles. Clear gutters before the storm and call a professional if ice dams cause leaks.
This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Insurance Claim Restoration is a restoration contractor, not an insurance company; coverage decisions are made by your insurer under your specific policy.