With temperatures well below freezing and the holiday season coming to an end, winter still has a ways to go. Homes across the Midwest have already been covered in snow, and there is surely more to come. Most don’t think twice about the effect snow can have on their roof, assuming that if no moisture or cold air gets in, everything must be fine – and it may be. But one thing to consider is how effectively the snow can safely melt off of your roof and what can happen if ice dams begin to form. Unfortunately, ice dams and winter roof damage are an unruly pair.
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams occur when ice forms at the bottom of the roof near the gutter and prevents moisture from draining off the roof. Thus, when the temperature is warm enough to melt the snow on top of the roof, but not the ice block on the bottom of the roof, the melted snow has nowhere to drain. This causes an excessive build-up of water stuck on the roof, which will inevitably leak into your home.
How Can I Protect my Roof From Ice Dams?
Ice dams don’t have to be a reality for your roof. There are certain measures you can take to protect your roof from ice dams.
- Insulate your attic. By properly insulating your attic, the heat stays inside the house where it belongs. Sure it will cause your roof to be much colder, but if properly installed, your roof can withstand the colder temperatures much easier than it can excessive moisture.
- Keep your gutters clear. An easy way for moisture to get stuck at the bottom of the roof is clogged gutters. If your gutters are full of debris, the moisture running off the roof isn’t able to escape, causing it to build up, freeze, and cause an ice dam. Hire a professional to inspect and clean your gutters before the backup begins.
Roofing and Gutter Contractors Near Me
Brincks Exteriors has a service area that extends throughout west-central Iowa, eastern Nebraska, and Wisconsin, as well. We are the roofing and gutter contractors that you can count on to keep your home and family safe. Contact us if you have questions about ice dams and winter roof damage or would like to schedule your roofing or gutter inspection.
