How to Understand and Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof

Introduction

• A brief overview of what ice dams are.

• Importance of preventing ice dams for roof longevity and structural integrity.

  
  

How Ice Dams Form - How do ice dams form and affect your roof?

The beginning of an ice dam

• The snow melts due to the warmer temperatures on the upper sections of the roof, often influenced by heat escaping from the attic or upper floors.

• The meltwater flows down the roof towards the eaves, where the roof temperature is lower. If the water refreezes at the roof's edge, it forms an ice dam, preventing further meltwater from draining off the roof.

• It is a ridge of ice that forms at the roof's edge, preventing melting snow from draining off.

  
  

  The reason why this happens

- Insufficient attic insulation: This leads to uneven roof temperatures.

- Poor ventilation: Causes warm air to rise and heat the roof.

- Accumulation of snow: Excessive snow increases the likelihood of melting.

Signs of Ice Dams - Signs of Ice Dams on your roof.

• Identifying physical indicators.

- Ice build-up along the roof edge.

- Water stains on interior ceilings and walls.

• Monitoring roof conditions during winter months.

- Importance of regularly checking roof and eavestroughs.

Preventing Ice Dams - Preventing Ice Dams on your roof

• Improving attic insulation.

- Benefits of adding insulation to maintain roof temperature.

• Enhancing ventilation in the attic.

- Role of proper ventilation in controlling roof temperature.

• Regular snow removal techniques.

- Safe ways to remove snow build-up from the roof.

Warm Attic

/ \

/ Melting \

/ Snow \

/ \

v v

| |

| Ice Dam |

==================== (Roof Edge)

Icicles

When to Seek Professional Help

• Major ice dam formation causing significant leaks.

• Persistent water damage despite preventive measures.

Conclusion

• Recap of the importance of preventing ice dams.

• Encouragement to adopt preventive measures and monitor roof conditions.

• Call Total Roofing & Service for help.

• Final thoughts on maintaining a safe and healthy home during winter months.