As winter settles in here in Ohio, homeowners need to be aware of a potential issue that could cause significant damage to their homes: ice damming. Ice dams can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly, and understanding how they form and what effects they have on your roof can help you prevent them from causing trouble. In this blog post, we'll explore the formation of ice dams, their impact on your roof, and the best ways to prevent and handle them.
What Is Ice Damming?
Ice damming occurs when melting snow on your roof refreezes at the eaves (the edges of your roof). This often happens when the heat from your home causes the snow near the roof's peak to melt, and as the water flows down to the colder eaves, it freezes. Over time, this process creates a barrier of ice that prevents further melting water from draining off the roof. The trapped water then backs up, which can lead to water leaks inside your home.
How Ice Damming Affects Your Roof
Water Damage to the Roof and Interior
As the water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep under the shingles and into the layers of your roof. This water intrusion can lead to serious damage to your roof, including rot and deterioration of the roofing materials. But the problems don’t stop there—once the water makes its way under the shingles, it can leak into your attic, insulation, walls, and even down into your living spaces, causing mold and mildew to form.
Structural Damage
The weight of an ice dam can also be a concern. As the dam grows, it places extra pressure on the edges of your roof, potentially causing structural damage over time. Prolonged exposure to the moisture and weight of the ice dam can warp roof decking and lead to leaks that might not be immediately visible, making it difficult to catch the damage before it worsens.
Damage to Gutters and Downspouts
Ice dams can also damage your gutters and downspouts. As water freezes and expands, it can cause gutters to crack or detach from the house. This can lead to an expensive gutter replacement or repair job, as well as the potential for water to accumulate near the foundation of your home, which can cause further damage.
Increased Energy Costs
Ice dams are often a sign that your attic insulation and ventilation may be inadequate. Warm air escaping from your home into the attic can cause uneven roof temperatures, leading to the formation of ice dams. This not only causes damage to your roof, but it can also lead to higher heating bills as the inefficiency in your home’s insulation makes it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
The good news is that ice dams are preventable with the right precautions and maintenance. Here are some tips to help protect your roof from ice damming:
Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation
Proper attic insulation and ventilation are key to preventing ice dams. By ensuring that your attic is properly insulated, you can reduce the amount of warm air leaking from your living spaces into the attic. Additionally, proper ventilation helps to maintain a consistent temperature across your roof, which prevents melting and refreezing. Consider consulting a professional to assess your insulation and ventilation needs.
Keep Gutters Clean and Clear
Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation by preventing water from draining off your roof. Make sure your gutters are clear of debris, especially in the fall, before the first snowstorm of the season. Installing gutter guards can also help reduce the likelihood of debris buildup.
Use Heat Cables
Heat cables can be installed along the roof’s edges and in gutters to keep the water flowing and prevent ice buildup. These cables heat up to melt the snow and ice before they have a chance to form an ice dam.
Ensure Proper Roof Pitch and Flashing
Roof design can also play a role in ice dam formation. If your roof has a low pitch or inadequate flashing, it may be more prone to ice dams. Ensure that your roof is designed to allow proper drainage and that flashing is in good condition to protect vulnerable areas of the roof.
Install Ice and Water Shields
When replacing your roof or conducting a roof renovation, ask your contractor to install an ice and water shield along the edges of your roof. This material provides an extra layer of protection to prevent water from seeping under your shingles and causing leaks.
What to Do If You Have an Ice Dam
If you already have an ice dam forming, it’s crucial to take action quickly to avoid further damage. Here’s what you can do:
Remove Snow from the Roof
If it’s safe to do so, use a roof rake to remove excess snow from your roof. Start at the edge and work your way up to avoid pushing snow under the shingles. This helps reduce the amount of melting snow that could contribute to the formation of an ice dam.
Use a De-icing Product
You can use de-icing products (such as calcium chloride) to help melt the ice. Place the de-icer in a fabric sock or pantyhose and lay it across the ice dam. Avoid using rock salt, as it can damage your roof and gutters.
Call RUFFIN ROOFING!
If the ice dam is large or causing significant damage, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor. We can safely remove the ice dam and inspect your roof for any damage that may need repair.
REMEMBER: REGULARLY inspect your roof (at least annually), ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated, and take care of your gutters to minimize the risk of ice dam formation. Stay proactive & your roof will be better equipped to handle the winter months!