How to Avoid Ice Dams in the Future.

March 2, 2022

One of the most frustrating things about winter is dealing with ice dams. These large ridges of ice form along the edge of your roof and cause damage to your roof, gutters, and interiors. Not only are ice dams costly to repair, but they can also be dangerous. If you want to avoid ice dams in the future, there are a few things you can do.

1. Keep Your Attic Cold

One of the main causes of ice dams is a warm attic. When the heat from your home rises up into the attic, it can cause the snow on the roof to melt. The water then runs down the roof and refreezes along the edges, forming ice dams. To prevent this from happening, make sure your attic is well-insulated and well-ventilated. This will help to keep the temperature in the attic cold, which will prevent snow from melting on your roof.

2. Clear Snow from Your Roof

Another way to prevent ice dams is to clear snow from your roof. This is especially important after a heavy snowfall. Use a roof rake to remove snow from your roof, being careful not to damage your shingles. By removing the snow, you’ll prevent it from melting and refreezing along the edges of your roof.

3. Install a Heating Cable

If you live in an area with frequent snowfall, you may want to consider installing a heating cable. These cables are placed along the edge of your roof and melt the snow, preventing it from forming ice dams. While this is an effective solution, it can be expensive to install and operate.

4. Check Your Gutters

Your gutters play a crucial role in preventing ice dams. They are responsible for channeling water away from your roof and home. If your gutters are clogged with leaves, dirt, or other debris, water can back up and freeze along the edges of your roof. To prevent Ice dam removal this from happening, clean your gutters regularly and make sure they are in good working condition.

5. Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks in your home can also contribute to ice dams. When warm air from your home escapes into the attic, it can cause the snow on your roof to melt. To prevent this from happening, seal any air leaks in your home, especially around doors and windows.

6. Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried these steps and are still experiencing ice dams, it may be time to seek professional help. A roofing contractor can assess your roof and attic and provide you with solutions to prevent ice dams in the future. They may recommend installing additional insulation or ventilation or making repairs to your roof.

Ice dams can be a headache for homeowners, but by taking these preventative measures, you can avoid them in the future. From keeping your attic cold to checking your gutters, there are many steps you can take to keep your roof and home safe during the winter months. If you’re still experiencing ice dams, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help.