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Showing posts from January, 2026
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  When the Northern Freeze Hits: Dealing with Burst Pipes and Flooding in North Idaho 208-263-1058 Winter in Sandpoint and the surrounding Bonner County is beautiful, but the extreme cold brings a hidden threat to every homeowner: frozen and burst pipes. At North Idaho Flood and Fire , we know that a water emergency is one of the most stressful events a homeowner can face. Whether it’s a pipe that froze in the crawl space or a second-story line that burst and sent water through your kitchen ceiling, our team is ready to step in and restore your home—and your peace of mind. Why Pipes Burst in Our Climate In places like Schweitzer and Sagle, temperatures can drop well below zero in a matter of hours. When water freezes inside a copper or PEX pipe, it expands. Contrary to popular belief, it isn't usually the ice itself that breaks the pipe, but the massive pressure buildup between the ice clog and the faucet. When that pipe finally gives way, it can release hundreds of gallons ...

The Hidden Danger on Your Roof: A Guide to Ice Dams at Schweitzer and Sandpoint

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Winter in Northern Idaho is breathtaking, especially when the peaks of Schweitzer Mountain are covered in fresh powder. But for homeowners in Sandpoint, Sagle, and throughout Bonner County, that beautiful snow can hide a destructive secret: Ice Dams. At North Idaho Flood and Fire , we’ve seen firsthand how a small buildup of ice can lead to a major restoration project. Here is what you need to know about protecting your home and what to do if the water finds its way inside. What Exactly Is an Ice Dam? In the Idaho Panhandle, the "freeze-thaw" cycle is constant. An ice dam forms when heat escaping from your attic melts the snow on the upper part of your roof. As that water runs down to the colder eaves, it refreezes, creating a thick ridge of ice. This ridge traps subsequent meltwater, forcing it under your shingles and into your attic, walls, and ceilings. The Risks: More Than Just a Few Icicles While large icicles might look like a winter wonderland, they are often...