Winter brings beautiful snowfall, but it can also pose a serious threat to your roof in the form of ice dams. Ice dams can cause significant damage if not dealt with properly. Here's how to prevent them and ensure your roof remains protected this winter.
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams form when snow melts on your roof due to heat escaping from your attic. The water flows down the roof and refreezes at the eaves, causing ice to accumulate. Over time, this ice can block proper drainage, leading to water backing up under the shingles, which can cause interior water damage.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
- Ensure Proper Insulation: Proper insulation keeps the temperature even across your roof, reducing the chance of snow melting and refreezing.
- Improve Ventilation: Attic ventilation ensures cold air circulates, keeping your roof cold and reducing ice dam formation.
- Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters prevent water from draining properly, increasing the risk of ice dams. Clean them regularly, especially before winter.
- Install Heat Cables: Heat cables installed along the roof's edge can melt snow and ice before it accumulates, preventing ice dams from forming.
When to Call a Professional
If you already have ice dams forming, it's crucial to call a professional for safe removal. DIY methods can cause damage to your roof, so having an expert handle it is the best approach.
For more information, visit our full guide on how to safely remove snow and ice from your roof.