When winter blankets the world in snow, homeowners in colder climates often face a hidden menace: ice damming. Not only can ice dams cause structural damage to your home, but they can also lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. This article dives into what ice damming is, why it occurs, and how you can prevent it.
What is Ice Damming?
Ice damming happens when snow on your roof melts, refreezes, and accumulates, forming a “dam” of ice. This dam prevents additional melting snow from draining off the roof, causing water to back up and potentially seep into your home. This is most notably an issue for asphalt composition shingles roofs because shingles are only meant to shed water off of the roof but they are not a “water tight” type of roofing product. Ice damming is most typically observed along eaves but can also occur in other areas of a roofing assembly with poor design and/or drainage.
How Does Ice Damming Occur?
Ice dams form when a roof’s surface temperature is uneven. Here’s how the process works:
- Heat Rises: Warm air from inside your home escapes into the attic, warming the roof’s surface.
- Snow Melts: The heat causes snow to melt, even when outside temperatures remain below freezing.
- Refreezing: As the melted snow flows to the colder eaves, it refreezes into ice.
- Ice Accumulation: Over time, the ice grows, forming a dam. Water trapped behind the dam can then pool and seep under shingles, causing damage.
Cross-Section Diagram Explanation
Below is a diagram illustrating the process of ice damming:
Why is Ice Damming a Problem?
Ice dams can cause significant damage to your home:
- Roof Damage: Water backing up under shingles can lead to rot and leaks.
- Interior Damage: Water that seeps into walls or ceilings can cause mold, staining, and structural issues.
- Gutter Damage: The weight of ice can pull gutters away from the roofline.
How to Prevent Ice Damming
The best way to combat ice damming is by addressing its root cause: uneven roof temperatures. Here are some tips to prevent ice dams:
- Improve Attic Insulation: Adequate insulation prevents heat from escaping into the attic, keeping your roof uniformly cold.
- Seal Air Leaks: Use caulking or weather-stripping to seal any gaps where warm air might escape.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Install vents to allow cold air to circulate in the attic, balancing the roof’s temperature.
- Clean Gutters: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
- Use Roof Heating Cables: For chronic ice dam issues, heat cables along the roof edge can melt ice and snow safely.
Conclusion
Ice dams may be a winter hazard, but understanding their cause and prevention can save you time, money, and stress. By taking proactive measures, you can ensure your home remains safe and warm all winter long.
Are you concerned about ice damming this winter? Ask for Knight’s Solutions for your Ladder Assist and inspection needs, as we understand the intricacies of ice damming.
Recent Comments