Ice Dams On Your Home

Ice dams are a common problem for homeowners in the wintertime. They can be very dangerous and need to be prevented so they do not damage your roof or allow moisture inside. Here is a blog going over the ice dam fact sheet that will tell you everything you need to know about ice dams.

What Is An Ice Dam?

An ice dam forms on your roof due to poor drainage in the winter. Snow and ice build up on the roof, putting extra pressure and weight on one area. Ice can get trapped under the shingles and cause damage to the roof. This exposes your home to a leaky roof and may even cause part of your roof to collapse under the weight.

What Can I Do To Prevent Ice Dams?

There are several steps you can take to protect your home and roof from damage due to ice dams. 

1. Clean The Gutter—Making sure the melting ice and snow can flow safely off of your roof is the best way to prevent ice dams. Check your gutters regularly and make sure any ice or debris trapped inside is cleared out. Keeping your roof drainable is the best way to make sure ice dams do not form and build up on your roof.
2. Remove Snow From Your Roof—Heavy snowfall can be a big factor in ice dams forming. If snow piles up on top and is not given the chance to melt, you may need to clear the snow off yourself or have a professional come in to securely do so. This helps minimize the strain of weight on the roof, in addition to preventing ice dams.
3. Insulate Your Attic—Ice dams can form because the heat from the inside of your home causes the water to melt and come inside. 

If you are unsure whether or not you have ice dams, you can take a look at your icicles. If they are not trapping water behind them, you probably do not have ice dams. You can also check for water stains or moisture in your attic to know if water is getting through the roof, which can be caused by ice dams. Don’t hesitate to turn to GW Savage for assistance.