Minnesota Roofing Problems & Solutions: Ice Dams
The snowy backdrop of Minnesota winters creates a stunning ambiance; however, it makes daily tasks more challenging and can cause major headaches like ice dams.
Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or new to the experience, preventing and dealing with them can feel like a daunting experience, so our experts have weighed in with the most common ice dam issues and solutions for your roofing system.
What Are Ice Dams?
As snow builds up on your roofing system, if there are uneven hot and cool spots, a ridge of ice is created. This ridge is called an ice dam and most often happens with sudden temperature changes or if heat is escaping from your attic. This ice block keeps the snow from draining into your gutter system and can pool on the roof because it has nowhere to go.
How Do They Affect Your Roof?
Once the dam has formed and the water starts to build, it can leak under the shingles and work into your roof decking and sheathing. If the water has no other place to go than inside your home, it can continue into your attic insulation and drywall, creating a massive risk of damage to your structure's internal stability.
There's also the risk of chunks breaking off and falling from the roof. This can be dangerous because once it falls, it can damage your shingles, gutter system, and any landscaping, items, or people underneath it.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
It's always best to take action before winter sets in, so we recommend making sure your attic insulation is in good condition to keep the roofing temperature even. You can also add soffit and roof vents to flush out the warmer attic air and bring in the cooler air to keep the roof at a lower temperature and decrease the risk of snow melting and refreezing.
Heated cables along the roof's edge are another great preventive measure. Place them in a zigzag pattern for complete coverage to stabilize the roof temperature and save you time and money because it reduces heavy snow build-up, decreasing the risk of roof collapse.
Tips for Getting Rid of Ice Dams
While we never recommend DIYing it, if you choose to, use the appropriate safety measures to reduce your risk of injury.
Start by removing excess snow from the roof with a shovel or rake, or you can try breaking up the ice damage into smaller chunks to create an access point for the water to drain. Some melting agents are also available, but these are not typically recommended because they can be corrosive, especially for those with metal roofs or exposed metal components.
Removing an ice dam can be downright dangerous, and hiring a removal expert can be the best option, especially if you're concerned about leaks or if the excess snow is too heavy for your roof. They have the right tools and will know the best method to help prevent damage to your roofing system and ensure the ice dam has been completely removed, so you don't have to worry.
When You Need Professional Ice Dam Removal, Restoration Geeks is Here!
Ice dams are dangerous and can threaten your roof, gutters, shingles, and home interior. You deserve the highest quality professionals on the job, and Restoration Geeks deliver!
Our family-owned and locally operated company has been in the business for over 20 years, and we specialize in everything from expert storm damage repair to commercial roofing installation you can depend on.
If you need to schedule an appointment or have any questions, give us a call at 952-500-9546, or you can contact us online today.