What Are Ice Dams
Ice dams are a common yet potentially destructive winter roofing issue. They form when snow on the roof melts off the peaks during the day, and the water trickles down to the roof’s edge where it refreezes as temperatures drop overnight. Over time, this cycle can create a ridge of ice buildup on your eaves that prevents further melted snow from draining off the roof.
The Consequences of Ignoring Ice Dams
Ignoring ice dams can lead to a world of problems for homeowners. The water trapped behind an ice dam can seep under the shingles, and ultimately infiltrate into your home. This can lead to:
- Water staining and damage to walls, insulation, and ceilings.
- Mold and mildew growth posing severe health risks to you and your family.
- Loosening of shingles and gutters getting torn off leading to further exterior damage and potential injury.
The financial burden of repairing these damages alone can be substantial making it essential to address ice dam issues immediately.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Proper Attic Insulation
Ensuring your attic has adequate insulation will minimize heat loss, which in turn reduces the chances of snow melting and refreezing on your roof. If you notice your roof has a spot that is melted, but the rest of your roof is covered in snow, this is a telltale sign that your roof is losing heat.
Attic Ventilation
Proper ventilation allows cooler air to enter and warmer air to exit the attic, maintaining a uniform roof temperature and reducing the likelihood of damaging ice dams.
Snow Removal
Regularly removing snow from your roof using a roof rake or broom can help prevent ice dams from forming. A roof rake is a specialized tool designed to remove snow without damaging the shingles.
Heated Cables
Installing heated cables along the roof edge can create channels for melted snow to flow off the roof and prevent ice dams. These cables are designed to warm the area around them, melting the snow and ice, and creating pathways for water to drain away.
Gutter Maintenance
Keeping your gutters free of leaves and debris will make sure that water can properly drain off your roof and away from your home without freezing up. You can even install a heated gutter system to make sure your gutters don’t freeze over during the winter.
Professional Inspection and Maintenance
Have your roof inspected and maintained by Best Tops Roofing to identify and fix potential issues that could lead to ice dam formation. Now, these ways to prevent ice dams from forming are great, but what if you have ice dams already causing havoc on your roof?
Techniques for Ice Dam Removal
Chemical Melting
Calcium chloride, not to be mistaken for rock salt, can be used to melt the ice on your roof, creating channels for water to flow off the roof. You can fill old tube socks or pantyhose leggings with calcium chloride granules, tie off the ends, and place them vertically over the ice dam.
Physical Removal
This method involves breaking the ice dam into chunks using tools like ice picks or hammers. However, this should be done very carefully to avoid damaging the roof or injuring yourself. This should be a last resort!
Professional Removal
When ice dams are extensive, or if you’re unsure of how to remove them safely, hire a professional ice dam removal service like Best Tops Roofing. Our team of seasoned roofers can assess the situation and provide safe and effective ice dam removal.
We’re Here to Help
Ice dams can pose a significant threat to the structural integrity of your home leading to costly repairs if not addressed immediately. By understanding what ice dams are, the damages they can cause, and how to prevent them, La Crosse homeowners can take these proactive steps to protect their homes. If you ever need a helping hand from the best roofing company in La Crosse, Best Tops Roofing is just a call away. We’ll help provide an extra layer of security and assurance in maintaining your roof throughout the winter season. Contact Us for a free roof inspection to make sure your roof is ready for the winter.