APPROACHING WINTERS: THREAT OF ICE DAMS AND HOW TO GET RID OF THEM?

Posted on December 13th, 2021

An ice dam is a build-up of ice on the roof of houses. It is often a result of snowstorms during the winter season. After a heavy snowfall, ice dams usually form on the ridges of the roofs and freeze there, preventing snow from draining off. 
Ice dams build up on the roof is a rising concern as winters arrive. These ice dams often tear off gutters, loose shingles and cause water to back up in houses. They can also damage the house by peeling paint, causing warped floors, and damage and sag ceilings, etc. It is often complicated to get rid of ice dams once they form. So how does one prevent these ice dams from forming in the first place? 

In this article, we will discuss some preventive measures you can take to avoid them from forming and also learn ways to get rid of them in case they form.

Here are three tips for ice dam prevention: 

Keep your roof cold:

Ice dams usually form when the temperature of your roof reaches above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, the best way to avoid ice dams is to keep your attic and roof cool. After a snowstorm, a cold roof will have a thicker blanket of snow. On the other hand, a warmer roof will have clear places where the snow has melted off and may have icicles hanging from the eaves in no time. 

Use an electric heat cable:

One of the best techniques to prevent ice dams is improving ventilation and reducing heat sources on the inner roof surface. You can install an electric heat cable along the roofline and gutters in a zigzag pattern around the edge to prevent melting water from cooling sufficiently to freeze when it reaches the eaves. This allows water to flow harmlessly to the ground. But keep in mind that combining water and electricity is always dangerous. So, it is best to avail of professional services, follow the manufacturer's instructions, and maintain them appropriately.

Close up attic bypasses:

It is essential to look out for any gaps in the attic and close them to avoid any leaks. Make sure you wear a mask and are fully clothed to eliminate the chances of skin irritation. This is not a winter job as the attic will be unbearably hot during the winters, so make sure you run a check in the summer season to prevent your ice dams from forming. 

Apart from following the methods mentioned above, it is advisable to keep your gutters clean before the winter season, use a roof rake after every snowfall, and chip off some ice manually, if possible. Hire a professional if the ice dam build-up is too much. This will not only ensure your house is protected from any damage but will also do the job more efficiently and safely. 

How to get rid of ice dams? 

The most common idea of getting rid of ice dams by using a hammer, shovel, or chisel is not only bad for your roofing but is also a dangerous job. 
You can try raking the snow off, but that too isn't the safest option. The best and safest way to remove ice dams is by getting professional services. It is essential to choose the right roofing contractor who can help you take care of your ice dam problems and is available for you when required. B Cheema Roofing can help you take care of your roof and provide professional solutions during emergencies like these. Give us a call on +1 855 454 3454 today!