Preventing Ice Dams
Significant snow events, such as the past couple winter storms in Connecticut, can often result in dangerous and destructive ice dams on homes. Ice damming occurs when water from melting snow runs down the surface of a roof and re-freezes. As it re-freezes, ice builds up and begins to “dam” the subsequent run-off. Roof shingles are designed to shed water, not handle pooled water. Some of the pooled water finds its way under shingles and can refreeze, lifting the shingles from the roof deck and creating an avenue for the water to enter. This scenario is caused by warm air in the attic space, heating the undersurface of the roof deck and melting the snow. The run-off makes its way down the roof and eventually comes in contact with the deck over the eaves, which is not exposed to the heat from the attic. This is where the ice generally begins to form.
Besides causing damage to the roof, ice dams can cause water damage to the interior of your home damaging walls and ceilings. Claims for ice dams can affect the cost and availability of insurance so you may want to take precautions to remove the snow from your roof after a heavy snowfall. There are many thoughts on what to do to prevent damage when an ice dam occurs but extreme caution should be used when working on a roof.
Here are some tips to prevent ice dams from forming on your home:
- Keep gutters clear of debris and snow, including the bottom of the downspouts so that when the snow begins to melt, the water may flow freely.
- Roof rakes can be used to remove snow from the roof and gutter line. It’s effective but only for single-story homes. This is probably the simplest solution because if you pull the snow down, it can’t melt and form an ice dam. A snow rake, normally available at most home and hardware stores, is an aluminum scraper mounted at a right angle on a telescoping aluminum pole. Caution – never use a snow rake standing on a ladder! BE EVER MINDFUL OF THE PRESENCE OF ELECTRICAL WIRING WHEN USING A ROOF RAKE. Only use a roof rake if you can safely do so. If you are uncomfortable, or believe the situation is unsafe, consider hiring a licensed and insured contractor to complete the work.
- Remove ice buildup around gutters by melting the ice. Use a melting agent like calcium chloride, which is one of the most common agents used. For added effectiveness, we suggest placing it in a nylon stocking, which allows for the agent to remain in place for a longer period of time and to be released gradually, extending the melting process.
We have provided a guide on ice dam causes and remedies that you may find helpful.
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