Ice dams form on sloped roofs due to temperature differences across the roof’s surface. They can cause potentially expensive damage to your roof, interior ceilings, walls, and floors, as well as personal belongings, if left untreated.
This article will explain how ice dams form, the signs you may have one, the safest way to remove them, and how to prevent them.
How ice dams form
Ice dams form due to uneven temperatures on your roof, which cause snow to melt, run down to the roof edge, and refreeze. Here’s a complete look at the process:
- Heat from the interior rises into the uninsulated attic and warms the roof surface.
- Snow on the upper portion of the roof melts due to this heat and runs down the slope of the roof.
- When the water reaches the roof eaves (edge of the roof), which are unheated, it refreezes, forming a barrier of ice.
- The barrier grows larger as more snowmelt runs down the roof and refreezes.
- When the dam gets large enough, it blocks water from draining off the roof, causing it to seep under the roofing material and into the building or house.
Signs of an ice dam
Signs you may have an ice dam include:
- Icicles forming along the roof edge
- Uneven snow melting
- Ice forming on siding
- Sagging or damaged gutters
- Interior water leaks from the ceilings or walls
Potential damage
Ice dams and the leaks they create can lead to extensive damage, including:
- Water stains or sagging of ceilings, walls, and floors
- Mold or mildew growth
- Soggy insulation
- Sagging roof structure or collapse
- Damaged gutters and downspouts
- Damage to personal property and belongings
Does homeowners’ insurance cover ice dam damage?
Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies will cover ice dam damage, including damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation. They’ll usually pay to repair the damage and replace your personal belongings or property that may need to be replaced. Removal of the ice dam may also be covered, but check your policy details to be sure.
If you have recurring ice dam issues, your policy may not cover further damage, especially if the dams are forming due to a lack of maintenance.
Ice dam removal
The safest way to remove an ice dam is to hire a professional to apply low-pressure steam that melts the ice without harming the roof.
You shouldn’t use sharp tools like ice picks, shovels, or axes to break up the ice, as they can damage your roof.
Rock salt should also be avoided, as it can corrode gutters and kill plants. Other ice melt chemicals may damage your roof or void the warranty.
As with most things, the best way to address ice dams is to prevent them from forming in the first place.
How to prevent ice dams
While ice dams can’t be prevented entirely, there are some things you can do to reduce the chances they will damage your home:
- Before winter arrives, clean all debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper roof drainage.
- Safely remove snow from your roof. Roof rakes are available to help you remove snow while remaining on the ground, or hire a professional.
- Carefully remove icicles from the edge of your roof. Do not stand directly beneath them when doing so. Hire a professional if you cannot safely reach them from the ground.
- Clear gutters and downspouts of snow and ice if you can safely do so.
- Ensure you have enough attic ventilation and roof insulation. Good airflow under the roof deck and proper insulation help prevent the extreme temperature differences that create ice dams. A roofing contractor can recommend the best products for your specific location.
If you have concerns about ice dams or need roof maintenance before winter weather hits, contact our team of experts. We’re here to help 24/7, no matter the time of year. We can also help with insurance claims.