How To Avoid Ice Dams On Your Roof
Preventing ice dams is crucial to protecting your home from water damage and costly repairs to your roof.
What Is An Ice Dam?
An ice dam is a wall of ice that forms along the roof edge of a building, causing a blockage of melting snow and ice from flowing off the roof. This can result in serious damage to the roof, walls, and ceilings, as well as causing leaks and water damage to the interior of the building.
Here are some tips to avoid ice dams on your roof:
- Insulate your attic: Keeping your attic well-insulated can reduce the amount of heat that escapes from your home and melts snow on the roof, which can then freeze into ice dams.
- Ventilate your attic: Proper ventilation can help keep the temperature in your attic closer to the outside temperature, reducing the risk of heat buildup that can melt snow on the roof.
- Seal air leaks: Air leaks around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, skylights, and vents, can let warm air escape into the attic and cause snow to melt on the roof. Seal these air leaks to prevent ice dams from forming.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clean: Clogged gutters and downspouts can prevent melting snow from draining properly, causing it to freeze and form ice dams. Keep your gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
- Install heat cables: Installing heat cables on your roof can help prevent ice dams from forming. The cables are designed to melt snow and ice, keeping the water from freezing and backing up under the shingles.
- Remove snow from the roof: If you have a flat or low-pitched roof, remove snow from the roof after every storm to reduce the amount of snow and ice that can accumulate and cause ice dams.
3G Home Exteriors can help you prevent ice dams by inspecting your roof and recommend a solution that will prevent damage to your roof or costly roof repairs. Contact us today to get a free inspection.
