Decks are built to withstand years of use, but constant exposure to weather, moisture, sunlight, and seasonal temperature changes naturally takes a toll over time. Unlike many other parts of your home, decks face continuous exposure to the elements while supporting heavy foot traffic, furniture, grills, and everyday activities. Because decks play both a structural and safety role, maintenance issues can quickly become more than just repair projects. Identifying warning signs early can help reduce safety risks, prevent costly damage, and potentially avoid larger insurance claims down the road. Sign #1: Loose, Wobbly, or Unstable Areas Whether it’s shaky railings, unstable steps, or soft spots, movement is often a red flag for structural concerns. While minor movement can naturally occur over time, noticeable shifting often suggests key structural components may be weakening. Items to check: Loose fasteners Weakening connection points and supports Moisture damage Unstable areas create more than repair concerns, they can also increase the risk of slips, falls, and injuries for family members or guests. Sign #2: Cracked, Splintered, or Damaged Boards While some cosmetic aging is normal, visible damage such as cracks, splintering, warping, and surface deterioration is often an indicator that materials are beginning to wear down. In addition to creating tripping hazards and increasing injury risks and liability concerns, cracked or splintered boards allow water to penetrate deeper into the material, increasing the likelihood of rot, mold growth, and hidden structural damage. Sign #3: Rot, Moisture Damage, or Mold Growth Moisture damage is one of the biggest threats to the long-term health of your deck because it often develops gradually and out of sight. Spaces where boards meet, areas around fasteners, stair connections, support posts, and locations with limited airflow are often more susceptible to water buildup. As moisture damage spreads, structural integrity can gradually decline, creating safety concerns and increasing repair costs. Because moisture damage often develops beneath the surface, homeowners may miss early warning signs such as: Discoloration Peeling paint or stain Musty odors Catching moisture issues early may help prevent more extensive repairs and reduce the likelihood of larger property damage concerns later. Sign #4: Rusted, Missing, or Failing Fasteners While deck boards often get the most attention, the hardware holding everything together plays an equally important role. Over time, fasteners and connectors can loosen, corrode, or fail, creating problems that impact the overall safety and stability of the structure. Nails popping up: Beyond being a safety hazard, nails lifting above the surface may indicate movement within materials, repeated expansion and contraction from temperature changes, or aging components. Loose screws or hardware: If hardware requires frequent tightening or sections of the deck feel less secure over time, it may point to larger underlying issues. Corroded brackets or connectors: Rust, corrosion, or visible deterioration can weaken connection points, reducing their ability to properly support weight and structural loads. When hardware begins failing, overall deck stability can quickly become a larger concern. Sign #5: Sagging or Noticeable Structural Changes Structural changes rarely improve on their own. Sagging, shifting, or separation often indicates underlying components may be weakening and should be evaluated sooner rather than later. Visible structural changes are often among the clearest indicators that a deck may need professional attention. Identifying these problems early can help homeowners address safety concerns before they lead to larger repairs, more extensive damage, or increased risks for anyone using the deck. Keep an eye out for: Uneven surfaces Posts shifting or leaning Separation between the deck and the house itself Sign #6: Your Deck Is Simply Getting Older Even well-maintained decks have a lifespan. While age alone doesn’t automatically mean your deck needs replacement, older decks often require closer monitoring as materials naturally wear down over time. Routine maintenance often plays a major role in how long a deck lasts. Cleaning, sealing, repairing damaged components, and addressing moisture issues early can help extend its lifespan. While many deck problems can be repaired, some issues may indicate it’s time to consider replacement instead. Repair vs. Replacement: How Do You Know? Some deck problems can be addressed with targeted repairs, while others may indicate broader structural concerns. Factors like age, extent of damage, repair frequency, and safety risks all play a role in determining the right path forward. Contact a reputable contractor or remodeling company like Skogman Remodeling and Repair that can assess what could be fixed or needs to be replaced. Insurance Considerations Homeowners Should Know Homeowners insurance may help protect against certain sudden or unexpected losses, but routine maintenance and wear-related issues are generally the homeowner’s responsibility. Staying proactive with inspections and maintenance can help reduce risks and prevent small problems from becoming larger claims. Deck problems rarely improve with time. Paying attention to warning signs early can help protect your home, reduce safety risks, and keep your outdoor spaces safer for everyone who uses them. Taking steps to protect your home goes beyond repairs and maintenance. Connect with a Skogman Insurance agent to review your coverage and make sure your home is protected for whatever comes next.

Owning a home in Eastern Iowa—whether in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, or the surrounding Corridor—comes with a lot of pride. It also comes with responsibility, especially when it comes to protecting your home from one of the most common (and costly) risks: water damage. From frozen pipes in the winter to heavy spring rains and sump pump failures, Iowa homeowners face risks year-round. And the reality is, water damage can happen quickly—often before you even realize there’s a problem. The good news? Today’s water detection and monitoring systems can help catch issues early—or even stop them before major damage happens. Why Water Damage Is a Bigger Risk in Iowa Living in Iowa means dealing with constant seasonal changes: Freezing temps that can lead to burst pipes Heavy rain and snowmelt that increase flooding risk Temperature swings that put stress on plumbing systems Even small leaks can go unnoticed and lead to costly repairs, making early detection especially important. What Are Water Detection Systems? Water detection systems act as an early warning system for your home. They monitor for leaks, unusual water flow, or moisture—and alert you right away so you can take action before damage spreads. Types of Water Detection Systems Leak Detectors (Point Sensors) Placed near high-risk areas like sinks, water heaters, or washing machines, these devices alert you when water is detected. Smart Water Monitoring Systems Installed on your main water line, these systems track usage and can identify unusual activity that may signal a hidden leak. Automatic Shutoff Systems The most advanced option—these systems can automatically turn off your water if a leak is detected, helping prevent major damage. Why These Systems Matter in Eastern Iowa Homes Homes in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and surrounding areas often have finished basements, sump pumps, and aging plumbing—all of which increase the risk of water issues. A detection system can: Prevent major damage Reduce repair costs Protect your home and belongings Provide peace of mind during storms or cold snaps Additional Ways to Prevent Water Damage Along with installing a system, Iowa homeowners should: Check pipes and appliances regularly Watch for signs like stains or musty smells Maintain sump pumps and drainage systems Winterize plumbing before freezing temperatures How Insurance Fits In Detection systems help prevent damage—but they don’t replace insurance. A strong homeowners policy can help cover sudden water damage and repairs, and in some cases, added protection measures may even help reduce risk. Final Thoughts In Iowa, where weather can shift quickly, protecting your home starts with preparation. Water detection systems offer early alerts, faster response times, and added peace of mind—helping you stay ahead of costly damage. Want to make sure your home is fully protected? Connect with a Skogman Insurance agent to review your coverage and explore options that fit your home and your needs.

Classic cars are worth a lot of money, usually considerably more than the average set of wheels. They require from their owners significant investments of both commitment and monetary value. They are also very hard to repair or replace once they sustain damage. That’s why to most classic car owners, the thought of having a wreck is anathema. Still, you cannot predict the future, and you never know when you might have an accident while out in your vintage set of wheels. But to be prepared for any eventuality, you can have collision insurance added to your classic auto insurance policy. This is an important benefit that you should never consider going without as long as a classic car represents value to you. Let’s take a closer look at how collision insurance works. What is collision insurance ? All vehicles face accident risks; that’s just part of driving. Collisions are one of the leading causes, nationwide, of both vehicle damage and subsequent auto insurance claims. Whether you back into a building or hit another car in your classic automobile, the damage to your own car could be a very challenging and scary loss to face. The added risk of wrecking a classic car is that these vehicles are often much harder to repair or restore. Both the vehicle as a whole and each of its individual parts are no longer top-of-the-line technology, and the parts necessary to fix them often are no longer made. This isn’t a vehicle that you can take to your average collision center. It will usually require specialized and often more expensive repairs. However, if you have collision insurance as part of your classic auto plan, then you will be able to file a claim against your policy for your losses. With the help of your policy, you will be able to significantly reduce your own cost burden for the ramifications of an accident. How will it pay me for vehicle damage? The terms within your classic auto plan’s collision coverage will work to minimize your personal expenses following an accident. However, there are some special terms and limits attached: Most classic auto plans pay based on an agreed value of the vehicle. This is not equal to the cash value coverage offered by most standard auto plans, which factors in the vehicle’s depreciation. You generally have the option to adjust the agreed value coverage limit on your plan as your vehicle’s value changes over time. Plans will cover the specialized repair often required for classic cars. Most plans offer coverage to help you replace the custom, rare or specialty parts of these vehicles, which is part of the overall restoration process.  Keep in mind, however, that collision insurance is not the only component of a classic auto policy. You must carry all coverage required by your state of residence, and you should also carry comprehensive insurance, which will pay for vehicle damage that arises from hazards other than collisions. Your agent is here to help you find that solution.

Skogman Insurance is excited to share some great news with our clients and community. Effective February 1, Skogman Insurance has officially acquired the Amana Insurance Agency, a trusted local agency serving the Amana area for years. Located in Amana, Iowa, the Amana Insurance Agency provides personal and commercial insurance coverage through a strong network of national carriers. As part of this acquisition, Skogman Insurance will retain the Amana Insurance Agency name, office location, and local team, ensuring continuity and preserving the strong relationships Amana clients value most. A Natural Fit Rooted in Local Service “We are excited to have the Amana Agency join Skogman Insurance,” said Hunter Skogman, President of Skogman Insurance. “Amana Insurance has an outstanding and experienced staff dedicated to serving the needs of businesses and individuals in the Amana area. As two locally owned companies that share the same mission and commitment to great customer service, this partnership is a natural fit.” At Skogman Insurance, we believe insurance works best when it’s personal. Our agent-driven, hometown approach aligns seamlessly with the way Amana Insurance has served its clients — with care, accountability, and a true commitment to the community. What This Means for Amana Insurance Clients For Amana Insurance clients, the transition will be seamless. You’ll continue working with the same local agents you know and trust, now supported by expanded resources and additional carrier options through Skogman Insurance. This partnership means: More carrier choices Expanded resources and support Continued one-on-one service with a dedicated agent A broader network backing your coverage decisions Most importantly, clients will continue to have a real person advocating for them, now with even greater tools and capabilities behind the scenes. About Skogman Insurance Founded in 1965, Skogman Insurance is a locally owned, independent insurance agency serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Iowa. With more than 300 years of combined insurance experience, our team delivers customized personal, commercial, and specialty insurance solutions through partnerships with top-rated national and regional carriers. Known for our agent-driven approach and long-term client relationships, Skogman Insurance is committed to providing trusted guidance, competitive coverage options, and personalized support — because when it comes to insurance, you should always have a person.

When business owners think about commercial property insurance, they often assume it only covers the building they own. While that’s an important piece, it’s far from the whole picture. A well-designed commercial property policy can help protect far more than just your physical space—it may also cover the tools, systems, and information your business relies on every day. From equipment and inventory to documents, accounts, and even certain electronic data, the right coverage plays a critical role in keeping your business running when the unexpected happens.  So the question is: do you have the right protection in place? Why Commercial Property Insurance Matters More Than You Think Imagine a fire or major loss disrupts your office. Beyond repairing the damage, you’re suddenly facing lost equipment, damaged records, and interrupted operations. Replacing physical assets is one challenge—but rebuilding systems, restoring data, and managing downtime can be just as costly. That’s where comprehensive commercial property insurance comes in. Depending on your policy, coverage may help with: Repairing or replacing damaged equipment and physical assets Restoring systems and records impacted by a covered loss Offsetting financial strain while your business gets back up and running For many businesses, this protection can be the difference between a temporary setback and a prolonged shutdown. Is Your Coverage Enough? Not all commercial property policies are created equal. If your business relies on specialized equipment, digital systems, or stored records, it’s important to review your coverage regularly. A strong policy should: Reflect the full value of your business assets—physical and operational Include coverage limits that align with real replacement and recovery costs Consider business interruption coverage to help reduce lost income during downtime Working with a knowledgeable, local agent ensures your coverage keeps pace as your business grows and changes. Peace of Mind Starts With the Right Partner The right commercial property insurance doesn’t just protect your building—it helps protect your livelihood. Taking time to review or update your policy now can help ensure your business is prepared for whatever comes next. Skogman Insurance is here to help you understand your options and build coverage you can count on. Call 319-366-6288 to talk with a local agent about protecting your business with confidence.

Iowa winters are no joke. Extreme cold, snow, and ice can create real risks for your home—often when you least expect it. While winter weather is inevitable, many of the most common (and costly) cold-weather insurance claims can be prevented with the right awareness and preparation. Here are the top winter hazards we see each year at Skogman Insurance, what causes them, and how you can protect your home. 1. Frozen & Burst Pipes When temperatures drop, water inside pipes begins to freeze and expand. This expansion can rupture water lines behind walls, under sinks, or in basements. The damage can be massive: A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per day — or even per minute, causing severe flooding, mold growth, electrical hazards, and long-term structural issues. Prevention Tips: Insulate exposed pipes and areas with poor heat circulation. Allow faucets to drip during extreme cold. Keep cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around plumbing. Maintain consistent indoor temperatures. 2. Roof Stress & Ice Damming Ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof, melting snow that then refreezes at the edges. This forces water backward under shingles, soaking insulation, drywall, and interior finishes. Heavy snow and ice also add dangerous weight to roofs—especially flat or older roofing systems—increasing the risk of structural failure. Prevention Tips: Remove excess snow from roofs when safe. Improve attic insulation and ventilation. Clear gutters so melting snow can drain properly. 3. HVAC System Strain or Failure During extreme cold spells, heating systems work overtime. That continuous strain increases the chance of mechanical breakdowns. If the heat goes out, temperatures inside can drop rapidly enough to freeze pipes and damage sensitive systems. Prevention Tips: Schedule routine furnace maintenance. Replace filters regularly. Install or test backup heat sources or smart thermostats. 4. Sprinkler System Freeze-Ups Fire suppression systems are critical—but they’re also vulnerable. When sprinkler lines freeze, they can burst just like any plumbing line, causing water damage and taking your fire protection offline. Prevention Tips: Ensure sprinkler piping is properly insulated. Keep areas around suppression systems heated. Schedule routine inspections to identify weak points. 5. Wind-Driven Ice Damage Strong winter winds can drive ice and snow into siding, facades, gutters, signage, outdoor HVAC units, and building exteriors. This can create cracks, dents, blockages, and hidden water intrusion that may not show up until spring. Prevention Tips: Inspect exterior surfaces before and after storms. Reinforce loose gutters, siding, or trim. Watch for ice buildup around roof edges and vents. 6. Skids, Slips & Falls Winter weather significantly increases the risk of: Motor vehicle accidents Driveway and property damage Slip-and-fall injuries at homes or businesses Workers’ Compensation and Homeowners' claims Icy surfaces are a major liability, especially for property owners responsible for sidewalks, steps, and parking areas. Prevention Tips: Shovel and de-ice promptly. Use proper lighting to improve visibility. Place warning signs in high-traffic commercial areas. 7. Wood & Pellet Stove Hazards When temperatures plunge, many households rely on wood or pellet stoves. But extreme cold brings added risks: Rapid exhaust cooling increases creosote buildup, raising the chance of chimney fires. Poor draft can cause smoke to back up into the home. Frozen or restricted air intakes reduce combustion efficiency and can lead to shutdowns or dangerous exhaust blockages. Prevention Tips: Clean chimneys and vents before the cold season. Check air intake pathways frequently. Install carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly. Stay Protected This Winter with Skogman Insurance Winter weather can be unpredictable—but your coverage shouldn’t be. Our team is here to help you understand your policy, identify gaps, and make sure you’re protected from the most common cold-weather claims. Have questions about your winter coverage? Or want to review your Homeowners, Auto, or Business policy? Contact your Skogman Insurance agent today!

Though businesses often require different types of insurance depending on industry risks, every single business can benefit from general liability insurance. This type of coverage offers valuable financial protection to your business, as well as to your customers. In particular, this coverage can protect against the resulting expenses if your business is held responsible for injuring a third party or damaging their property. Essentially, it can save everyone involved in a covered incident from large out-of-pocket costs. What exactly is covered by general liability insurance? These incidents involve damages sustained by third parties that stem from your business and employees. Let’s look at a few examples of incidents that could be covered by general liability insurance. A customer enters your store, happy to be out of the rain for some shopping. She doesn’t see a puddle near the entrance and slips and falls on the tile floor, breaking a leg on her way down. She must get medical attention and miss a few weeks of work while she recovers. Since it’s the responsibility of your business to clearly mark hazards and promptly clean them, this customer can make a claim against you to recover her lost expenses and income. A delivery man enters your business with a parcel and is surprised to see clutter everywhere. He accidentally knocks a stack of junk with his toe, which causes a heavy object to fall on top of him. Again, his injuries can be attributed to your business since it’s your responsibility to maintain a safe, tidy workplace. An employee is painting the exterior of your store’s windows for the season and a metal cart full of supplies accidentally drifts away because the wheels weren’t properly locked. Before the employee can catch it, the cart slams into a customer’s car, leaving a huge dent and a broken tail light. This too would fall under the responsibility of your business. Even though your business takes safety precautions, accidents can happen at any time. And if a customer or other third party suffers an injury or property damage at the hands of your business, general liability insurance can provide the necessary financial support to get through the incident. At Skogman Insurance, we make insurance personal. You have a person on your side who understands your business and helps you choose coverage that truly fits your needs. Call us today at 319-366-6288 to learn more about business insurance and how we can protect what matters most to you.

The fall and winter seasons often bring storms that can cause tree limbs to fall onto power lines. Sometimes the extent of the damage is severe enough to cause power outages that last for days. Getting through these require advanced preparation on the homeowner's part. The following tips will help you ride out a power outage. Flashlights and Spare Batteries When the power goes out after the sun sets, the very first requirement is being able to see. There should be plenty of flashlights strategically located throughout the house in easily located places. Select these locations and don't change them because there won't be enough light to hunt around for them after losing power. Keep a plentiful supply of spare batteries in case the power outage lasts for several days. Battery Operated Phone Make sure to have a phone that is battery powered so that you can communicate with the outside world. This is important should an emergency occur that requires outside help. Cooler Keep an insulated cooler for storage of food that can spoil. A supply of ice in your freezer can be used to keep the contents in the cooler at a low temperature. A refrigerator can keep its contents cold for a number of hours, provided the door is never opened. However, this presents a problem when you get hungry. Leave a Light Switch On This will alert you when the power has returned. Keep Your Power Generator Outside Placing it in an enclosed area like the garage can result in dangerous levels of carbon monoxide buildup, which may find its way into your home. Keep a Supply of Water Depending on your situation, a power outage can mean no running water. This is certainly true if your water comes from a well. Each person will require one gallon of water per day. Food Supply Keep a food supply that will last for a few days. The food should not require cooking or refrigeration. Keep a manual can opener handy. Candles Power outages that last for days can use up flashlight batteries before the power returns. When you require ambient lighting for the rooms in your home, some types of candles can last for many hours, which allows you to conserve your batteries when you don't know how long you will be without power. The candles should rest on a sturdy, level surface and be used away from flammable items. Protect your family. Call Skogman Insurance at 319-366-6288 for more information on home insurance.

More Americans are working for themselves than ever before. According to a 2023 report from MBO Partners, more than 64 million people are classified as independent contractors, freelancers, or self-employed—and that number is expected to keep growing. From the flexibility of setting your own hours to the ability to work anywhere, self-employment comes with incredible freedom. But it also comes with risk. One of the most important safeguards you can put in place is business insurance. Who Needs Business Insurance? It isn’t just store owners or those with large inventories who need coverage. So do: Freelance writers and designers – at risk of copyright or defamation claims Photographers and videographers – protecting expensive equipment and potential liability issues IT consultants and web developers – vulnerable to errors, data breaches, or client disputes Repair professionals and contractors – needing protection in case of property damage or accidents on the job Even if you’re a one-person business, your livelihood could be at risk without the right protection. Business insurance not only covers liability but can also help replace stolen equipment, cover interruptions to your work, and protect your reputation. Types of Coverage to Consider Liability Insurance Protects you from lawsuits or claims filed against you by third parties. This includes physical injuries (like someone tripping at your office) and non-physical harm (such as an error in your work). Many self-employed professionals benefit from specialized coverage such as: Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O): Covers mistakes or oversights in your professional services. Commercial Auto Coverage: Protects vehicles you use for business purposes. Property Insurance Covers damage or theft of the equipment you depend on every day—cameras, laptops, tools, servers, or even the space you work in. Additional riders may include: Business Interruption Insurance: Helps replace lost income if a disaster or fire prevents you from working. Inland Marine Coverage: Protects business property when it’s offsite or in transit. Peace of Mind for Every Business Owner The beauty of business insurance is its flexibility—it can be tailored to your industry, income level, and goals. With the right policy in place, you can spend less time worrying about “what if” and more time growing your business. At Skogman Insurance, we’ll help you find coverage that fits your unique needs. Because when you’re self-employed, you don’t just need a policy—you need a person who understands your business and cares about your success. Ready to protect your business? Call Skogman Insurance today at 319-366-6288 to learn more.