What is an Ice Dam

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Have you ever heard of an ice dam?

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof’s shingles and

into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall.

So what causes ice dams?

They’re often caused by poor ventilation and climate control within the attic of a home. When the attic gets too warm, this can cause snow on the roof of the home to melt. When your home has recessed lighting, skylights, intricate roof designs, and/or heating ducts, you’re probably at an increased chance for an ice dam to form.

How can you check for ice dams?

You can look for some warning signs that will tip you off to the presence of the sometimes elusive ice dam. Icicles can be an initial sign, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along with the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.” Another sign is if ice is coming through the home’s soffits or forming in the gutters, or there’s ice appearing on the exterior walls. 

Do you know what to do if you have an ice dam?

Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel, or calcium chloride ice melter. If winter weather causes water damage to your property, we’re here to help. Call us at SERVPRO® of East Arlington; we’re available 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition.