Ice Dams: How To Prevent & Remove Them

An ice dam is a build up of water on your roof or in your gutter that freezes.
When an ice dam forms, it can crush gutter systems and even leach into your attic.
You can remove an ice dam yourself but it is better to have a professional do it & eliminate the risk of house damage.

As snow begins to accumulate, the sight of icicles hanging off the eaves of a roof can be a picture worthy scene. However, what many homeowners may not realize is that those beautiful icicles can actually be a sign of a potentially serious problem: an ice dam. As freezing temperatures cause snow to melt and refreeze, thick banks of ice can form on the roof, wreaking havoc on the structure of the home. From damaged gutters and loose shingles to leaks and stained ceilings, ice dams can cause a multitude of issues that are both costly and time-consuming to fix.

The key to staying on top of ice dams is to prevent them from forming and remove them quickly if they do appear. Although preventing ice dams is easier than removing them, it’s crucial to act fast if you notice one. However, it’s worth noting that ice dam prevention and removal can require specialized tools and techniques, which may be best left to a professional. In this blog, we’ll explore how ice dams form, the damage they can cause, and the steps you can take to prevent and remove them. We’ll also discuss the potential risks of tackling this task on your own and when it’s best to seek professional help. By following these tips, you can help protect your home from the damaging effects of ice dams during the winter months.

What Causes Ice Dams

When warm air from your home’s attic rises up to your roof, it can cause the snow on your roof to melt. As the water droplets run down the roof, the water can refreeze, creating a layer of ice that can block the natural flow of water off the roof. This buildup of ice is what’s known as an ice dam.

Ice Dam Prevention & Removal Practices

If you can safely access your roof, rake the snow off with a lightweight rake before it refreezes. Keep eaves and gutters clear to avoid ice buildup.
Add quality attic insulation to prevent heat transfer and save on energy bills.
Seal airflow leaks and properly ventilate your attic to prevent overheating. Enlist professional help to develop an efficient ventilation system.
Install roof de-icing cables to prevent ice dams from forming, but be careful not to dislodge them when raking snow.
Use calcium chloride in a tube sock to melt ice dams safely off the roof, but do NOT use rock salt as it can cause damage to shingles
You can widen runoff channels and improve drainage by breaking up the ice with a mallet that is safe to use on the roof. It’s essential to avoid using tools that could damage the roof or shingles, such as a sharp or heavy tool like an axe or hatchet. There is a risk of snow and ice sliding off the roof, so exercise caution and perform this task from a higher vantage point. This can be a hazardous task, especially if you’re not comfortable climbing on a frozen roof!

When To Call a Professional To Remove Ice Dams

If you are faced with freezing conditions, and are not comfortable climbing onto a roof or handling chemicals, always call a professional. Safety must always be a top priority, and although ice dam removal can be done on your own, it’s recommended to hire an experienced professional who is trained in proper safety procedures and can recommend the best insulation, ventilation, and prevention techniques for your roof and attic configuration.

Rain Guard: Top Quality Gutter Service

If ice dams are giving you fits, call Rain Guard today. We can remove ice dams, clean your gutters and install new gutters, if needed. Our gutter service is the best in the business, ensuring the longevity of your gutter system. We can help reduce serious water damage that might occur on your roofline due to standing water from clogs. Our services include more than gutter installation. Browse our different services such as our seamless gutters, gutter guards, leaf filters, gutter cleaning, water collection systems, downspouts and rainwater drainage, and more. Send us a message and one of our highly trained representatives will reach out to you. Feel free to give us a call, or stop by one of our 3 locations in person! We look forward to hearing from you!