Say It Ain’t Snow: Potential Weekend Storm Has Homeowners Scrambling to Prepare

The cleanup from last weekend's massive snowstorm continues as landscapers, plow drivers, and residents work to clear snow from homes and businesses across Massachusetts. There's no rest for the weary, however, as another potential storm is lining up for this weekend.

For homeowners, concerns about ice dams and blocked vents are keeping home services professionals busy. 

CBS Boston spoke with Christian Berrios from Besant Home Services. Berrios has reported dozens of calls from homeowners worried about the weight of snow on their roofs and the formation of ice dams. 

"What you don't want is the ice to touch the gutter backwards into the house. Once you see that, it's when the issues start," he said.

Experts warn that heavy snow accumulation of 1.5 to 2 feet raises the risk of roof damage and ice dam formation, which can cause leaks if not addressed.

In Needham, Phillip Halverson of Kerivan-Lane, an oil, heating, HVAC, and plumbing company, said homeowners need to remember to remove any high snow drifts that could block vents on the outside of their homes.

"Biggest thing is making sure they are clear so the fresh air can get into the system, so it has air to burn," he said in reference to air intakes and vents for boilers. "And then also the exhaust gets out of the house, so you don't have carbon monoxide building up in the house."

Halverson urges homeowners to ensure their carbon monoxide detectors are working and to evacuate their homes and call 911 if the alarm sounds.

For Wellesley residents like retiree Donna Kenslea, clearing high snow drifts and taking breaks to stay safe are essential when dealing with the storms this winter is dishing out.