It’s not uncommon for local homeowners to become concerned about ice dams during the winter season, when inconsistent roof surface temperatures cause melted snow to trickle down and refreeze at the edges, preventing water from draining away from the roof. In addition to putting the whole roof structure under unnecessary stress, ice dams can cause extensive damage that may affect the rest of your house. Here’s how:
Icicles. These vertical ice formations might be a sight to behold on a bright winter day, but leaving them unchecked can cause the gutters to pull away from the roof’s fascia. Falling icicles can also damage siding, break windows and even hurt people or pets If they happen to walk under them.
Roof shingle damage. The longer ice dams are ignored over the winter months, the more they’ll continue to back up the surface of the roof. With nowhere to go, melted snow may start seeping underneath the shingles, turning to ice and causing damage when the temperatures drop.
Leaks and mold growth. In addition to shingle damage, your roof as a whole may become more prone to leaks due to ice dams. Water penetrating through the roof can find its way into the attic. This creates a damp environment where mold and mildew can thrive and cause respiratory problems for everyone in your household. Stop this issue before it starts by having your roof inspected before major seasonal changes occur and making sure that your attic is well-insulated to minimize the occurrence of ice dams.
Immediate and long-term actions against ice dams. Controlling heat loss inside your home is key to preventing ice dams. In addition to insulating the attic space, see to it that the vents aren’t blocked to facilitate air circulation throughout the space. This winter, make it a habit to remove snow from your roof to minimize ice dam formation. More importantly, work with a reputable company like Bone Dry Roofing – West to ensure your roof stays in top shape over the winter months.
Call (970) 364-7996 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.
