3 Solutions for Ice Dams

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

You can prevent an ice dam from wreaking havoc on your home.

Winter Storms Disasters

The winter season in Broken Arrow, OK, usually consists of snow, ice, and heated housing. The combination of these elements can create an ice dam on your roof that prevents proper drainage and creates bigger issues for you. Sometimes heat isn’t distributed evenly to your roof and can warm certain areas while leaving other areas to freeze. To prevent water damage and fix any winter storm disasters, here are three solutions you can use.

1. Insulate Your Roof

The best ice dam prevention solution is to properly insulate your roof. Heat escapes through ceilings and rises to the roof where it warms the wood and shingles above. To prevent this, check the depth of your insulation. Anything less than 8 inches is usually not enough to prevent heat from escaping. You can also stop air leaks by using foam or caulk. This will not only stop roof issues, but it will also save you money on your energy bill.

2. Remove the Buildup

If you notice a large amount of snow gathering on your roof, you might want to consider eliminating it. Houses that have poor ventilation can also have poor distribution of heat. By removing the snow with a push broom or shovel, you can clear any potential problem areas.

3. Create Channels in the Ice

Ice dams that are already formed can force the water to enter the house through the attic. You can stop this by creating channels in the ice and draining the water into the gutters. Use a hose with warm water and melt the lower edge of the ridge. This solution is a temporary fix but could prevent a large amount of winter storm damage.

Winter can have many unique challenges, but you can stop problems from growing by being an observant and proactive homeowner. With these methods in mind, you can prevent an ice dam from wreaking havoc on your home.