Warren Storm Damage Risks

Risk Level: VERY HIGH

Season: December - March

Frequency: Affects 60-70% of Warren homes at some point

What Are Ice Dams?

Ice dams form when heat escaping through your roof melts snow on the upper roof surface. This water runs down to the cold eaves where it refreezes, creating a barrier of ice. As more snow melts, water backs up behind this ice dam and seeps under shingles, causing:

• Water leaks into ceilings and walls
• Insulation damage and mold growth
• Ceiling stains and peeling paint
• Structural damage to roof decking
• Gutter damage from ice weight
• Foundation issues from dripping water

Why Warren Is High-Risk

• 38" Annual Snow: Consistent snow cover on roofs
• Temperature Fluctuations: Freeze-thaw cycles common
• Older Homes: Many Warren homes built 1940s-1970s with poor attic insulation
• Insufficient Ventilation: Older construction standards inadequate
• Low-Slope Sections: Ranch homes have minimal roof pitch

Warning Signs of Ice Dams

• Large icicles hanging from roof edges
• Ice buildup at roof eaves
• Water stains on ceilings near exterior walls
• Wet or damaged insulation in attic
• Peeling paint on soffits or ceilings
• Sagging or damaged gutters

Prevention Strategies

• Attic Insulation: Upgrade to R-49 or higher (critical!)
• Proper Ventilation: Ridge vents + soffit vents for air circulation
• Ice & Water Shield: Install waterproof membrane on eaves, valleys
• Seal Air Leaks: Prevent warm air entering attic (recessed lights, chimneys)
• Uniform Roof Temperature: Keep entire roof cold, not just eaves
• Professional Snow Removal: Remove heavy snow before melting begins
• Heated Cable Systems: Install on eaves for severe ice dam areas

Emergency Response

If ice dams form and water is entering your home:

• DO NOT chip ice (damages shingles)
• Call professional ice dam removal service
• Use calcium chloride in pantyhose laid on ice (melts channels)
• Contain interior water damage
• Document damage for insurance
• Schedule roof inspection after thaw

💰 Ice Dam Damage Costs: Minor: $500-$2,000 • Moderate: $2,000-$8,000 • Severe: $8,000-$20,000+ (full roof replacement + interior repairs)

Risk Level: HIGH

Season: January - March

Frequency: 2-4 heavy snow events per winter

The Danger of Snow Weight

Warren's 38" annual snowfall means roofs regularly support significant weight. Fresh snow weighs approximately 5-15 lbs per cubic foot, while wet snow can weigh 15-30 lbs per cubic foot. A 1,500 sq ft roof with 12" of wet snow can support 15,000-22,000 pounds!

At-Risk Warren Homes

• Flat or Low-Slope Roofs: Snow doesn't slide off
• Older Structures: Pre-1970s homes may have minimal load capacity
• Complex Roof Lines: Valleys collect drifting snow
• Wide Spans: Attached garages, ranch homes with long roof spans
• Multiple Storm Accumulation: Snow from several storms combined

Warning Signs of Excessive Snow Load

• Interior: Sagging ceiling, cracks in walls/ceiling, doors/windows sticking, creaking sounds
• Exterior: Visible roof sag, bowed rafters, separated walls
• Immediate Danger Signs: Sudden cracking/popping sounds, significant visible sag

Snow Removal Recommendations

• When to Remove: After 12"+ accumulation, especially wet snow
• How Much: Remove from roof edges (4-6 feet in), leave 2-3" to protect shingles
• Professional Service: Recommended for 2-story homes, steep roofs, elderly
• DIY Caution: Use roof rake from ground, never climb on snow-covered roof
• Focus Areas: Prioritize valleys, low-slope sections, over garages

Prevention Strategies

• Structural Assessment: Have engineer evaluate if concerned
• Reinforcement: Add support if planning heavy roofing materials
• Steeper Pitch: Consider when replacing roof (snow sheds better)
• Metal Roofing: Excellent snow-shedding properties
• Regular Monitoring: Check roof after each significant snowfall

⚠️ Emergency: If you suspect dangerous snow load, evacuate immediately and call structural engineer. Warren Building Department: (586) 574-4530

Risk Level: HIGH

Season: Year-round, peak in Fall/Spring

Frequency: 8-12 high-wind events annually (50+ mph)

Warren Wind Patterns

Warren experiences strong winds from multiple sources:

• Spring Storms: 40-60 mph winds from severe thunderstorms
• Fall Gales: Strong northwest winds 30-50 mph
• Winter Systems: Arctic fronts bring sustained winds
• Summer Derechos: Rare but devastating 70-90 mph straight-line winds
• Great Lakes Effect: Enhanced winds near Lake St. Clair

Common Wind Damage

• Shingle Loss: Wind lifts and tears off shingles
• Flashing Damage: Chimney, valley, vent flashing blown off
• Fascia/Soffit: Edge materials ripped away
• Gutter Damage: Gutters torn from fascia
• Tree Debris: Branches puncture roofs, damage shingles
• Siding Damage: Vinyl siding blown off, damaged

Wind-Resistant Roofing

• High-Wind Rated Shingles: Class F rating (110 mph wind resistance)
• Proper Installation: 6 nails per shingle vs. 4 (critical!)
• Starter Strip: Secure starter course prevents edge lift
• Quality Materials: GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed top brands
• Sealed Shingles: Ensure adhesive strips properly bonded
• Regular Inspection: Identify loose/damaged shingles early

Tree Management

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Keep 6-10 feet from roof
• Remove Dead Trees: Especially ash trees (emerald ash borer damage)
• Regular Pruning: Remove dead branches before storms
• Storm Preparation: Trim before severe weather season

After Wind Storms

• Inspect from ground for visible damage
• Look for missing/damaged shingles
• Check gutters, downspouts
• Schedule professional inspection if damage suspected
• Document for insurance with photos
• Emergency tarping if leak develops

Risk Level: MODERATE

Season: May - September

Frequency: 3-5 hail events per year, 1-2 significant

Warren Hail Events

Southeast Michigan experiences regular hail from severe thunderstorms. While tornadoes are rare, hail is common enough to be a legitimate concern for Warren homeowners.

Hail Size & Damage Potential

• Pea-sized (1/4"): Minimal damage, possible cosmetic dings
• Penny-sized (3/4"): Can damage shingles, dent aluminum
• Quarter-sized (1"): Significant shingle damage likely
• Golf ball (1.75"): Severe damage to roofs, siding, vehicles
• Baseball (2.75"+): Devastating damage, punctures possible

Identifying Hail Damage

Asphalt Shingles:

• Dark spots where granules knocked off
• Bruises/soft spots when pressed
• Exposed black asphalt substrate
• Random pattern across roof (not uniform aging)

Other Damage:

• Dented metal flashing, vents, gutters
• Cracked/broken skylights
• Damaged siding, especially aluminum/vinyl
• Dented AC condenser fins
• Damaged vehicles, outdoor furniture

Impact-Resistant Roofing

• Class 4 Shingles: Highest impact rating (UL 2218)
• Insurance Discounts: Many insurers offer 20-30% premium reduction
• Metal Roofing: Excellent hail resistance (may dent but rarely fails)
• Modified Asphalt: SBS-modified shingles more flexible, impact-resistant
• Warranty Protection: Impact-resistant shingles often have enhanced warranties

After Hail Storms

• Document Immediately: Photos of hail size, damage, date/time
• Professional Inspection: Hail damage not always obvious from ground
• Insurance Claim: File within policy timeframe (usually 1 year)
• Avoid Storm Chasers: Use local, established contractors only
• Prompt Repair: Damaged shingles void manufacturer warranty

⚠️ Beware Storm Chasers: After major hail events, out-of-state contractors flood Warren. Only use licensed, local, established roofers. Elite Roofing has served Warren for 25+ years!

Risk Level: MODERATE

Season: May - September

Frequency: 10-15 severe storm warnings per summer

Severe Storm Threats

• Damaging Winds: 60+ mph straight-line winds
• Large Hail: 1"+ diameter
• Heavy Rain: 2-3" in short period, flash flooding
• Lightning: Structure fires, power surges
• Tornadoes: Rare but possible (EF0-EF2 range)

Storm Preparation

• Trim trees before storm season
• Secure outdoor furniture, grills, decorations
• Clean gutters to handle heavy rain
• Test sump pump before storm
• Have emergency supplies ready
• Know your basement/interior safe room

During Severe Storms

• Stay indoors, away from windows
• Monitor weather radio/alerts
• If tornado warning: basement, interior room, lowest floor
• Avoid plumbing, electronics during lightning
• Don't go outside to secure items

Risk Level: MODERATE

Season: March - May

Warren Flooding Risks

Rapid snowmelt combined with spring rains can overwhelm Warren's drainage systems, causing basement flooding and foundation issues.

Prevention

• Gutters & Downspouts: Clean, extend 6 feet from foundation
• Grading: Ensure soil slopes away from house
• Sump Pump: Test regularly, have battery backup
• Foundation Sealing: Seal cracks before spring
• Window Wells: Clean, ensure proper drainage
• Sewer Backup Valve: Consider installing to prevent backup