Preparing your home for a true Missouri winter is basically an extreme sport, and the sooner you gear up, the better your odds.

Missouri winters don’t exactly tiptoe in. One day it’s sweatshirt weather, and the next you’re wondering if your eyelashes might actually freeze together. That’s the charm of living in the Midwest… right?

At CFM Insurance, we understand that Missouri homeowners face a unique brand of winter: long, cold, unpredictable, and full of surprises. Here’s a closer look at what really happens inside a winter storm, the damage it can cause, and how you can prep your home (and your peace of mind) now that the snowflakes are officially flying.

When Winter Turns Wild: Breaking Down a Storm

A Midwest winter storm isn’t just snow and cold: it’s a whole personality. And that personality? It can pack a punch.

• In many parts of Missouri, annual snowfall ranges from about 8 to 24 inches, depending on where you are. 
• Even in more moderate areas, average winters can bring over 13 inches of snow per season. 
• Some winter storms in Missouri rise to the scale of major disasters: between 1980 and 2024, the state recorded 9 “billion-dollar” winter-storm events (storms with damages exceeding $1 billion). 
• Why so often? Missouri sits where cold Arctic air masses meet warm, moist air from the Gulf – creating ideal conditions for heavy snow, ice storms, and sudden temperature swings. 

So when winter “turns wild,” it’s not just an inconvenience – it’s a serious test for your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.

Arctic Air Drops In (Uninvited, Per Usual)

Sudden temperature drops are practically a Missouri trademark. One minute you’re out walking the dog, the next minute you’re sprinting back to make sure the pipes don’t freeze. Rapid dips can strain your HVAC system and expose poorly insulated areas in your home.

The Ice Storm: Missouri’s Not-So-Secret Specialty

If there’s one thing we’re known for, it’s ice.

Thick, glassy layers of it. The kind that coats roofs, trees, gutters, and power lines until everything looks pretty – but dangerously heavy. Ice storms can lead to roof collapses, gutter damage, fallen limbs, and widespread outages.

Snowfall & Blizzards

We might not get blizzards every year, but when we do? Missouri goes all out. Wet, heavy snow piles up quickly, putting stress on rooftops and contributing to – you guessed it – ice dams.

Wind & Whiteouts

Strong winds can rip off shingles, damage siding, and push snow and moisture into places it shouldn’t be. Plus, let’s be honest… every Missourian has a wind-related horror story.

The Most Common Winter Claims We See

Winter may be beautiful, but it definitely keeps our claims team busy. Here are the big ones:

Frozen & Burst Pipes

When temps drop fast, your pipes can freeze before you even realize what’s happening. The result? Water damage, chaos, and a story you’ll tell for years, usually with a half-laugh, half-cry.

Ice Dam Damage

When snow melts and refreezes along the roofline, water gets trapped. And where does it go? Places it absolutely should not go, like your ceilings, your walls, and sometimes your sanity.

Roof & Gutter Damage

Snow load, ice buildup, and freeze-thaw cycles team up like the worst kind of winter trio. Over time, they can warp, crack, or break the structures that protect everything inside your home.

Fallen Tree or Limb Damage

Ice plus wind plus older trees equals a risky combination. Heavy ice can turn even a healthy limb into a surprise wrecking ball headed straight for your roof, fence, or parked car.

Slip-and-Fall Liability

Walkways and steps become accident zones when ice coats everything in sight. And yes, homeowners can be liable for injuries on their property because winter loves adding insult to injury.

Heating-Related Fires

When temperatures drop fast, homeowners turn to space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves for extra warmth. But improper use, like leaving heaters too close to furniture, running them overnight, or walking away from an active fireplace, can spark fires that spread quickly. These claims are more common than many realize once the deep cold settles in.

How to Prep Your Home Before Winter Gets Out of Hand

Think of this as your pre-winter tune-up.

1. Insulate Like Your Home’s Counting On It

Pipes in crawlspaces, attics, and exterior walls need extra love.

Better insulation = fewer surprises.

2. Get Your Roof & Gutters Ready

Clear out leaves, check your shingles, and make sure water can flow freely. A clean gutter in December can save you a headache in January.

3. Trim Those Trees

Flimsy limbs don’t stand a chance against winter weather. A quick trim now can save you from a major headache later. And for those towering giants? Let a local pro handle it – landing yourself in a neck brace was not the free space on your winter Bingo card.

4. Put Together a Winter Emergency Kit

Think flashlights, heavy blankets, backup heat sources, and non-perishables. If the power goes out, you’ll thank yourself.

5. Capture a Snapshot of Your Home

Take photos or video of your property before winter hits. It makes the claims process easier and gives you proof of your home’s condition if you ever need it.

During the Storm: Stay Safe, Stay Smart

• Take it easy when shoveling – snow gets heavy fast.

• Keep an eye on roof edges and ceilings for early signs of ice dam issues.

• Let faucets drip slightly to prevent pipe freeze.

• Keep exterior vents and drains as clear as possible.

After the Storm: Know What to Look For

When the sun comes back out (finally), do a quick home check:

• Look for missing shingles, bent gutters, or heavy ice buildup.

• Inspect piping and plumbing areas for slow flow or frost.

• Check ceilings and walls for discoloration or moisture.

• Walk the yard to spot fallen limbs or hidden damage.

Stay Connected With Your Local Agent: Your Winter Wingman

Here’s the thing: winter storms are unpredictable, but your coverage shouldn’t be.

Your local CFM agent can help you:

• Review your coverage before winter hits

• Understand what your policy includes (and what it doesn’t)

• Navigate a claim if the worst happens

• Avoid the classic “I thought I was covered!” moment

They’re here to help you protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind – through every snowstorm, ice storm, and rogue cold snap.

Final Thoughts: Winter Happens. CFM Is Here for It.

Missouri winters can be harsh, but you don’t have to face them alone. Prep early, stay safe, and lean on the people who know how to help when things get slippery.

Reach out to your CFM agent today to make sure your home is fully protected before winter really takes center stage.