Ice damming is a common problem for houses and buildings in cold climates. Ice dams are often perceived as related to gutters not being cleaned in time for snow and cold temperatures. That is just not true.
An ice dam can occur when snow accumulates on the slanted roof of a home with inadequate insulation and ventilation in the attic. The warmth coming up through the roof melts the snow where it meets the roof surface. Melted water flows down the roof, under the blanket of snow, onto the eave (overhang), and into the gutter, where colder conditions on the overhang cause it to freeze. Eventually, ice builds up along the eave and in the gutter. Behind this ice dam forms a puddle of water, which can be anywhere from several to 18 inches or more deep, and cannot drain through the ice-filled gutter system. The diagram below shows the action of melting water as it forms behind an ice dam.
An ice dam is a serious problem that can result in:
- Leaking roof
- Gutters collapsing under the weight of the ice and snow (see photo below)
- Wet, ineffective insulation, which will need to be replaced
- Stained or cracked plaster or drywall
- Rotting timber
- Stained, blistered, or peeling paint.
Under extreme conditions, with heavy snow and severe cold, almost any house can develop an ice dam. However, homes with poor insulation and ventilation will develop ice dams even during average winter weather. Giant icicles hanging from the eaves or the gutters indicate a poorly insulated and/or ventilated attic.
The short-term solution to ice damming involves creating channels in the ice dam to drain the water and removing snow from the roof. We strongly advise against attempting this yourself. Inexperience can lead to roof or gutter damage, or even serious personal injury or death. It’s best to seek professional help for this task.
The long-term solution to ice damming involves seeking the services of a professional roofer/carpenter and insulation specialist. They can properly insulate the attic and ensure it has adequate ventilation. This work is best done in the spring, summer, or fall, not in the winter, to prevent further damage and ensure the effectiveness of the solution.
If this ever happens to your home, please call us. We may be able to remove the snow and ice off the roof for you, which should buy you some time to remedy the problem for good. If your gutters have been damaged by the ice dam, we may be able to repair the gutters. Finally, by no means should you ever go up on the snow and ice-covered roof yourself!
