How Can I Prepare for an Ice Dam Disaster?
Homeowners often think a faulty roof is to blame for water leakage and damage around exterior walls and ceilings during winter months. But the real culprit could be ice dams. Ice dams are lumps of ice that form on gutters, eaves and valleys, and prevent melting snow from running down. As the snow melts, the water backs up and seeps under shingles or tiles and eventually into your home.
Minimize Ice Dam Formation on Your Roof
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and natural debris.
- Identify areas of heat loss in your attic and then properly insulate those areas.
- Wrap or insulate heating ductwork in order to reduce heat loss through the attic.
- Use a snow rake or soft broom to clear fresh snowfall from gutters.
- Avoid using any sharp tools or ice picks on gutters or downspouts.
- To avoid getting hurt by falling icicles or avalanching snow, don't climb on your roof or work on a ladder beneath a roof that has large amounts of snow on it.
This section highlights examples of safety precautions you can consider to help prepare yourself, others and your personal property for winter freeze. Please recognize that a particular precaution may not be appropriate or effective in every circumstance. We encourage you to use your own good judgment about what's appropriate.