Storm Damage Guide · Markham
Storm Damage Guide: Ice Dam Prevention After Severe Weather in Markham
Written for Markham homeowners: what ice dam prevention really involves, priced, sequenced, and de-jargoned. Deeper freeze depths mean liner condensation and cap ice-loading. Below: what to expect, real numbers, and the questions worth asking before you book.
Quick answer
The three signs Markham homeowners keep missing on ice dam prevention: smell changes, staining above the firebox, and unusual sound. Any one means schedule; two together means stop-use.
Typical
$342–$547
Duration
3–5 hrs
Freeze-thaw
67/yr
When to stop using the appliance
Any active water ingress, visible flame licking outside the firebox opening, or the smell of gas products in the room means shut down and call. Insurance coverage on damage during "known unsafe operation" is thin.
Signs the ice dam prevention can't wait
The most reliable early warnings on Markham homes: smell changes near the appliance, staining above the firebox or on interior ceilings, unusual soot at the cap, and any water inside the smoke chamber. Any one of these is a call — two together is a stop-use.
The 90-second self-check
Look at the cap for gap or crushing, walk the crown for hairline cracks (67 freeze-thaw days a year here will find any weakness), and shine a light up the flue for glazing. Photograph anything unclear and text it over.
Common questions
What if it rains or snows on the booking day?
Roof-side work reschedules to the next dry window at no charge. Interior scopes (firebox, damper, appliance) proceed regardless.
Do you need a permit for ice dam prevention in Markham?
Cleaning and inspection are permit-exempt in Markham. Structural masonry, liner replacement, or a new appliance install typically need one — we pull it as part of the job when required.
What warranty do you offer on ice dam prevention in Markham?
Five-year written workmanship warranty on materials and labour, transferable to a new homeowner within that window. Manufacturer warranties on any installed products pass through separately.
Do you service condos and heritage homes in Markham?
Yes. Condo boards in Markham typically want a scope letter and insurance certificate 48 hours out; heritage properties need product substitutions we pre-source.
Is ice dam prevention covered by home insurance in Markham?
Sudden damage (storm, animal, appliance failure) is usually covered minus deductible. Gradual wear generally isn't. A written pro assessment before the claim call materially improves outcomes.
Are you WETT and WSIB certified?
Yes — WETT SITE-Comprehensive #C-46082, CSIA #12408, and active WSIB #7248194. Certificates emailed on request before the job.
Do you offer same-day ice dam prevention in Markham?
Usually — call before 9am and we'll confirm a same-day arrival window inside Markham for most standard scopes.
When's the best time of year for ice dam prevention in Markham?
Late September through mid-November with Markham averaging 148cm of snow starting December. Spring (April–May) is the second window and often 10–15% cheaper.
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