Prevent Winter Roofing Damage Caused by Ice Dams

Ice dams are a common problem during the winter season. They occur when snow melts and the water freezes again to form a block of ice. These dams can cause a lot of structural damage to the roof, gutter system, and siding if you do not address them on time.

The best way to limit the damage is through ice dam prevention. There are some steps you can take to ensure all of the water is directed away from the roof before it can freeze again. The tips mentioned in this post can help. 

Types Of Damage Often Caused By Ice Dams

Ice dams are a nuisance because they can cause considerable property damage that requires expensive repairs. Some of the most common issues include:

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  Snow and ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof system.

  Water Leaks – Ice dams form a barrier that prevents snow melt from reaching the gutters. The water pools behind the dams and seeps into the roof structure. People have to deal with massive leaks in the attic and rooms directly under the roof. Sometimes this water can travel down the siding and cause damage to the basement walls as well.

• Water Damage – The leaking water can damage your siding walls, drywalls, insulation, and even wooden floors if the problem isn’t resolved quickly. Damp walls and furniture attract mold, which can compromise the indoor air quality as well.

• Roof’s Structural Integrity – Ice formation isn’t good for your roof’s structural integrity. It can damage the shingles, roof bed, flashing, and other such important components. If the roof’s structural integrity is compromised, you may need to spend a lot of money on repairs.

• Weight – Ice dams are heavy and can put a lot of strain on the roof’s support structure. Dams can overwhelm the roof’s gutter system and cause it to break away from the wall.

You can avoid winter roof damage by scheduling a comprehensive inspection and maintenance service before the winter months. 

How To Prevent Ice Dams From Forming?

Regular maintenance is the only way to ensure your roof doesn’t have ice dams in the winter. You can also fix the attic insulation to ensure the warm air from your home doesn’t melt the snow on the roof. A good insulation barrier will seal all warm air inside and ensure the cold air stays out.

Make sure your gutter system is intact and is draining water from the roof efficiently. Faulty or poorly-installed gutters can also cause ice dams and water accumulation.

Contact us today for a free estimate to help prevent winter roof damage to your property.