Watch for Ice Dams
Chelsea O'Donnell
With a week of snow, ice, and temperatures all over the place, it’s a great time to remind homeowners about ice dams.
Ice dams occur when the heat from the inside of a house melts the snow on the roof, causing water to run down and refreeze at the edge of the roof. Over time, this can create a thick layer of ice that can cause damage to the roof and even leak into the house.
The first sign of an ice dam is often the formation of icicles on the edge of the roof. While icicles may look pretty, they are a warning sign that water is not draining properly and may be backing up under the roof shingles. Other signs of an ice dam include water stains on the ceiling or walls, peeling paint or wallpaper, and damp insulation.
Preventing ice dams is much easier than dealing with them after they form. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your home isn’t susceptible to the problem:
Keep your gutters clean. Gutters filled with debris can cause water to overflow and freeze on the edge of the roof, leading to ice dam formation.
Insulate your attic. A well-insulated attic will keep the heat inside your house from melting the snow on the roof.
Ventilate your attic. Proper ventilation will help prevent heat buildup in the attic, which can contribute to ice dam formation.
Consider installing an ice and water shield. This is a type of roofing material that is designed to prevent water from seeping into the house if an ice dam forms.
If you already have an ice dam, there are a few things you can do to remove it:
Use a roof rake to remove snow from the edge of the roof. This can prevent more water from backing up and freezing.
Fill a pair of pantyhose with calcium chloride ice melt and lay it across the ice dam. This can help melt the ice and create a channel for water to escape.
Hire a professional. Removing an ice dam can be dangerous, especially if you have to climb on a ladder or walk on a slippery roof. It's best to leave this job to the professionals.
Ice dams are both a common and serious issue that can cause damage to your roof and home. Taking steps to prevent ice dams from forming is the best way to avoid this problem. If you do have an ice dam, there are ways to remove it, but it's important to be cautious and seek professional help if necessary.
Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.