Preventing Ice Dams

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes can make your water damage emergency "Like it never even happened." 712-262-4379

When the first few blustery days creeped into northwest Iowa, you may have been thinking about buying a new winter coat, winterizing your car, or planning your next tropical vacation. If you are like most, you probably weren’t thinking about how the coming snow could potentially cause major damage to your home. Icicles hanging along the eaves of your house may look beautiful, but they spell trouble. Snow covered roofs and freezing weather allow icicles to form and can lead to ice dams. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off your roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas. There are several signs that may indicate the presence of an ice dam. Be on the lookout for warning signs and always be sure to have excess snow cleared off your roof as soon as possible following a winter storm. Learning how to prevent ice dams on the roof is easier on you and your home than having to learn how to remove them.

What Causes Ice Dams

• Poor attic insulation
• Clogged gutters
• Lack of snow removal

Ice Dam Warning Signs

• Interior water damage
• Ice on exterior walls
• Drainage problems
• Ice forming at roof/gutter edges
• Moisture in the attic

How to Prevent Ice Dams

• Properly insulate and ventilate your attic
• Stay on top of snow removal. With no snow on your roof to melt, you eliminate a key factor of ice dams
• Metal roofing. Metal roofs boast a reputation for shedding snow exceptionally well compared to shingles
• Keep drains, scuppers, gutters, and downspouts clear of debris.
• Use a snow rake to carefully clear snow off your roof or hire a professional to do so.
• Insulate light fixtures, fans, and vents in and under attics to block heat from reaching the roof.
• Seal vents and fans between the attic and living areas to restrict warm airflow.

If neglected, ice dams can result in significant damage to your home. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is here to help. Our highly trained staff of water loss professionals are able to help you with any damage that stems from an ice dam. We will respond quickly to help cleanup, dry, and build back your structure “Like it never even happened.”