Grayson West
Winter might bring picturesque snow-covered terrains, but it also results in a not-so-pretty problem: ice dams. These thick piles of ice form along the edges of your roof and cause damage—leaks and ruined insulation. The good news? With some preparation, you can prevent ice dams before they even form. Let’s check out these 15 expert-approved tips that will ensure your roof stays ice-dam-free all winter long.
Get a Roof Inspection Done
Before winter sets in, invest in a professional roof inspection. Trained eyes can spot trouble areas you might miss, such as minor shingle damage and ventilation issues. They can also assess your current ice dam prevention measures and suggest improvements. While it might seem unnecessary, it’s far cheaper than dealing with water damage from a severe ice dam.
Insulate Your Attic
Proper insulation is the first line of defense against ice dams. Heat from your home can rise into the attic, warming the roof and causing snow to melt. When this water reaches the colder edges of the roof, it refreezes, creating ice dams. Adding insulation in your attic can keep your roof cooler and prevent this issue.
Seal Attic Air Leaks
Even the best insulation won’t help if warm air leaks into the attic due to cracks around vents, chimneys, or light fixtures. Caulk or expanding foam can stop warm air from reaching your roof and forming ice dams. Multiple sealants are commercially available for small leaks, but substantial gaps may require a contractor.
Install Roof and Gutter Heating Cables
Heating cables are yet another great way to prevent ice dams. These self-regulating cables run along your roof’s edge and in gutters, keeping them warm enough to prevent ice buildup. If you are well equipped to handle electrical work, you can install these cables or have someone professionally install them.
Maintain Your Gutters
Clogged gutters are a prime reason for ice dams. Leaves, pebbles, dust, and snow can trap water, which then freezes and forms ice dams. Before winter hits, make sure to clear your gutters of any blockage. Consider installing gutter guards, which can reduce clogging and help water flow smoothly, minimizing the risk of ice dams forming on your roof.
Add Roof Ventilation
Another strategy to keep ice dams at bay is ensuring your roof is well-vetilated. A well-ventilated roof, equipped with ridge and soffit vents, helps maintain attic temperatures similar to outdoor temperatures. This airflow prevents premature snowmelt and the formation of ice dams, ensuring a consistent and balanced environment.
Install a Drip Edge
This install is a metal strip that runs along the roof’s edge to direct water away from your home. This simple addition can help prevent water from seeping under shingles and forming ice dams. It’s an easy DIY installation for someone with roofing experience, or you can hire a professional to ensure work gets done correctly.
Remove Snow from Your Roof
One way to reduce such issues is to clear snow from your roof before it melts and refreezes. Using a roof rake, you can safely remove snow from the ground without risking injury by climbing onto the roof. Always begin at the roof’s edge and gradually move upward to prevent any harm to the shingles.
Use Calcium Chloride Ice Melter
If an ice dam does form, calcium chloride ice melter can safely break it down. Unlike rock salt, calcium chloride melts ice without causing harm. Keep the pellets in a mesh stocking or tube and lay it across the ice dam. The slow release of the melter will clear the ice and allow water to drain.
Upgrade to Ice and Water Shield Underlayment
Another effective way is to replace your roof. Engage a contractor to install an ice and water shield underlayment. This waterproof barrier is placed under the shingles to prevent leaks due to ice formations. While it’s not a quick fix for an existing roof, it’s a vital preventive measure if you invest in a new one.
Address Poor Roof Design
Sometimes, ice dams may form due to poor roof design, such as low slopes or valleys that trap snow and ice. Consulting a roofing contractor can help you identify design flaws that may contribute to ice dams. Depending on the problem, solutions may vary from adding extra insulation to reconfiguring certain roof parts for better drainage.
Ensure Proper Downspout Drainage
Blocked or misdirected downspouts can trap water and contribute to ice dam formation. Regularly check that your downspouts direct water at least 6-10 feet away from your home’s foundation. If necessary, extend your downspouts using pipe extensions or flexible tubing. Proper drainage helps keep water from freezing near your roof.
Insulate and Ventilate Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans, whether in your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room, should be insulated and vented outdoors, not in the attic. Warm air from these fans can raise the temperature in the attic and cause snow to melt and form ice dams. So, ensure your vents are directed outside, and consider adding insulation around fan ducts to prevent warm air from escaping into the attic.
Apply an Ice Belt to Your Roof
An ice belt is a metal strip installed along the lower edge of your roof. It prevents water from refreezing and creating an ice dam by reflecting heat and directing water away from the roof’s edge. It is a more permanent and long-term solution for homes that frequently deal with ice dams. Though it requires professional installation, it’s highly effective.
Use Dark Roof Shingles
When it’s time to replace your roof, consider going to the dark side—of shingles. As is known, dark colors absorb more heat from the sun. This excess heat will melt snow and prevent ice dam formation. While this might seem counterintuitive to keep your attic cool, it can be effective in areas with heavy snowfall and prolonged cold spells.