While seeing icicles hanging from the side of your house may look picturesque, this is actually a sign of serious winter trouble. The formation of ice along your gutters — also known as ice dams — can cause significant damage if the underlying issues aren’t addressed in a timely manner.
How Ice Dams Can Damage Your Home
Ice dams form when snow on warmer portions of the roof melts and begins to flow downward. When the melted snow reaches the area near the gutters, which is typically still below freezing, it refreezes and causes an ice dam. This most often occurs when poor ventilation and insulation cause excess heat loss through certain portions of the roof.
After the ice dam forms, it keeps snow melt from draining out through the gutters. The trapped water will often seep through the roof and leak into the walls and ceilings. The extra weight from the ice could also cause the gutters to sag and pull away from the house.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Because ice dams can cause water damage throughout the home, you should take action to prevent their formation. After heavy snows, it may be helpful to use a roof rake or push broom to safely remove snow while standing at ground level.
For a long-term solution, you should install additional insulation in the attic. By making the floor or ceiling of the attic airtight, you will keep warm air from escaping through the roof, which is the primary reason why ice dams form in the first place. Fixing leaky ductwork can also help.
If ice dams have caused widespread leaks and water damage in your home, contact Shrock Restoration. With over 30 years of experience, our team of certified water damage restoration experts can mitigate damage from the leak, and help provide repairs to keep such issues from happening again in the future. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Our Address
234 W Main St
Loudonville, Ohio 44842
Consulting Hours
Emergency Services
Available 24 Hours a Day