Winter brings with it tons of issues for the home. From problems with snow on the roof to issues with gutters, there are bound to be structural problems during the wintertime. One of the most common, and most dangerous, are ice dams that form on the gutters surrounding your home. If you’re a homeowner and start noticing ice dams forming, it’s important to get help as soon as possible to remove them. But why is this a concern? Here are some of the reasons ice damns could be dangerous to the home, and what to do about them.
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams are formed when snow on the roof melts and then refreezes, typically near the gutters. This creates a barrier of ice that prevents any further melting snow from draining off the roof. As more snow melts, it can get trapped behind the dam and potentially leak into your home, causing damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and even electrical systems. In addition, the weight of the ice dam can put stress on your roof and gutters, causing them to break or collapse.
How Do Ice Dams Form?
There are several factors that contribute to the formation of ice dams on roofs.
One of the main causes is inadequate insulation and ventilation in the attic. When warm air from inside your home rises into the attic, it can melt the snow on the roof, creating a layer of water that then refreezes when it reaches the colder edges of the roof.
Another cause is fluctuating temperatures, which can cause snow to melt and then refreeze multiple times. Finally, clogged gutters and downspouts can also contribute to ice dams by not allowing melted snow to properly drain off your roof.
How To Prevent Ice Dams?
The best way to prevent ice dams is through proper insulation and ventilation in your attic. This will help keep the roof cold and prevent any warm air from inside your home from melting snow on the roof.
In addition, it’s important to keep gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris to allow melted snow to drain properly. You can also use a roof rake or other tools to remove excess snow from your roof before it has a chance to melt and refreeze.
What To Do If You Already Have Ice Dams?
If you already have ice dams on the roof, it’s important to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
One option is to use an ice melt product specifically designed for roofs, which can help melt the ice and allow it to drain off.
However, if you’re unsure of how to remove ice dams or have extensive damage already, it’s vital to get professional help. A professional gutter repair contractor will have the expertise and tools necessary to safely and effectively remove ice dams without causing further damage to your roof. They can also help assess any potential damage and make repairs if needed.
Eliminate Ice Dams Today
At Roof Guys, we’re determined to help you protect your home through high-quality gutter repairs in Louisville, KY! We also provide roof repairs, roof inspections, siding repairs, and more to ensure your home is safe, secure, and free of ice dams. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you keep your home safe during the winter and year-round!
