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Harsh winters can cause major roofing problems, and one of the most common is the formation of ice dams. These formations can cause significant water damage and affect the structure of your roof, walls, and ceilings. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent and manage this problem. Find out everything you need to know about ice dams, their causes, risks, and how to avoid them.

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam forms when the heat inside the home melts the snow on the roof, and the resulting water flows down the roof. However, when this water reaches the lower part of the roof, it cools and turns into ice, forming an ice “barrier.” This prevents water from draining properly from the edges of the roof and can cause water to pool behind the ice dam.

This standing water can penetrate under the roof shingles and seep into the home, which can cause significant water damage. This is especially common in areas with cold winters and poorly insulated homes.

Causes of Ice Dams

Ice dams are formed primarily due to a combination of factors. The main causes include:

  1. Insufficient Insulation: If the roof or attic is poorly insulated, the heat generated inside the home will move up the roof and melt the snow. This creates a water flow that can freeze at the edge of the roof.
  2. Inadequate Ventilation: Poor ventilation in the attic or on the roof can also cause heat to build up, increasing the risk of ice dams.
  3. Snow Accumulation: Thick layers of snow accumulated on the roof, especially during heavy snowstorms, increase the risk of ice dams, especially if the snow partially melts and refreezes.

The Risks of Ice Dams

Ice dams are not just an aesthetic problem; they can cause costly damage. Here are the main risks associated with this phenomenon:

  1. Water damage: Water that accumulates behind an ice dam can seep under the shingles and enter the home, causing leaks in the walls, ceilings and floors.
  2. Mold and mildew: Moisture caused by standing water can promote the growth of mold, which can lead to health problems for the occupants of the home.
  3. Roof deterioration: The pressure exerted by the water that stands behind the ice dam can cause cracks or damage to the roof itself.
  4. Structural Integrity Issues: If water damage becomes severe, it can affect the roof structure, leading to costly and complex repairs.

How to Prevent and Manage Ice Dams

Here are some tips to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof and minimize the associated risks:

  1. Improve Your Roof Insulation: Proper insulation in the attic and roof helps keep heat inside the home and prevent it from escaping through the roof. This prevents snow from melting and forming ice dams.
  2. Ensure proper ventilation: Proper roof ventilation allows cold air to enter and keeps the snow on the roof at a constant temperature, preventing snow from melting.
  3. Install heated gutters: These devices can prevent snow and ice from building up in gutters and around the edges of the roof, reducing the risk of ice dams.
  4. Clear snow from the roof: If possible and safe, remove snow from your roof, especially around the edges, to prevent ice dams from forming.
  5. Call a professional to a professional: If you suspect an ice dam is forming or are having difficulty treating the problem, do not hesitate to call a roofing professional to perform an inspection and repairs if necessary.

Conclusion

Ice dams pose a significant risk to your roof and home during the winter. By taking the proper preventative measures, such as proper insulation, proper ventilation, and regular maintenance of your roof, you can minimize the risk of water damage and preserve the safety and durability of your home. At Benjel, we are here to help you protect your property this winter and guide you in the best practices for maintaining your roof. Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions or needs.