Ice damming is a phenomenon that occurs when snow melts on the roof of a building and refreezes at the edge of the roof, forming a dam of ice. This ice dam can cause water to build up and back up under the shingles, potentially causing leaks and water damage to the interior of the building. In addition, the weight of the ice dam can also put a significant amount of stress on the roof structure, potentially causing it to collapse. To prevent ice damming, it is important to properly insulate and ventilate a building’s attic space, as well as clear snow from the roof to allow for proper drainage.
Ice damming can be a serious issue during the winter, as it can cause water damage to the interior of a building. Here are some steps you can take to prevent ice damming:
Insulate your attic: Proper insulation in the attic will help reduce the amount of heat that escapes into the attic space, which can help prevent ice damming from occurring.
Seal air leaks: Any air leaks from the living space into the attic should be sealed to prevent warm air from entering the attic and melting the snow on the roof.
Ventilate the attic: Proper ventilation in the attic will help to keep the temperature in the attic space consistent and prevent snow on the roof from melting and refreezing.
Remove snow: If you have an ice dam, you can try to remove the snow from the roof to reduce the amount of water that is being held back by the ice dam. This can be done with a roof rake or by hiring a professional roofing contractor.
Apply de-icing agents: You can also try using de-icing agents, such as calcium chloride, to help melt the ice dam. However, be careful when using these products, as they can damage your roof or gutters if not used properly.
Keep your gutters clean: Regularly cleaning your gutters of leaves and other debris can help prevent ice damming by allowing water to flow freely through the gutters and away from the house.
It’s important to note that ice damming can be dangerous, so it’s recommended to seek the help of a professional if you are unable to safely remove the ice dam yourself.