What Is An Ice Dam?
One thing that homeowners dread during snowy weather is the formation of ice dams along the edge of the roof. An ice dam earns its name by trapping pools of melted water behind the frozen dam created when melted snow re-freezes along the eaves, where the roof is coldest.
Water trapped behind an ice dam can flow under roof shingles and leak into the house, damaging:
- Walls
- Floors
- And other materials
Several conditions must exist for ice dam damage to occur. If all these conditions are present, it’s likely that some water will leak into your house. Here at JP Carroll Roofing, we offer solutions to repair damage to your roof caused by ice damming, as well as prevent ice dams from forming on your roof.
Can Ice Damage Your Roof?
Ice can damage your roof by thawing and refreezing as temperatures shift. As ice melts, water seeps into small holes in your roof.
Then, when temperatures drop back down, and the water begins to freeze again, it will expand, ripping open those holes and letting more water enter the subsequent thaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Prevent Ice Dams?
While you can’t prevent snow from collecting on your roof, there are other things you can do to prevent ice dams from causing water damage to your house. Some homeowners choose to focus on reducing the amount of heat that escapes into the attic, warming the upper part of the roof deck and causing snow to melt evenly.
Sealing Air Leaks
This type of ice dam prevention typically involves sealing air leaks in the attic floor and other solutions. Adequate attic ventilation is also important to keep the underside of the roof at the same temperature as the outside air.
Ice & Water Shield
Another way to protect your home from ice dams and the damage associated with them is to make sure that an experienced roofing contractor installs a protective “ice and water” shield along your roof eaves, where the ice dams form.
Many building codes (this may vary by state and town) stipulate that this ice dam membrane protection must extend at least 24 inches inside the heated wall space of a house. However, older houses may not have such protection.
How Do Ice Dams Form?
Ice dams form when:
- Snow stays on your roof for more than a few days, combined with freezing temperatures
- Warm air from your living space leaks into the attic, causing snow to melt high on the roof
- Your roof is missing membrane protection beneath the shingles and along the eaves
Ice Dam Damage Prevention & Repair Throughout Connecticut
Whenever you have a new roof installed or a roof replaced, it’s essential to have ice and water shield protection installed as well. We always ensure that your home is receiving all the products and services it needs to keep you safe and dry.
