Ice Dams: What they mean for your home

As winter carrys on and temperatures continue to drop, many homeowners worry about the potential for ice dams on their roof. Ice dams are a common problem that can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked. To protect your home from ice dam-related roof damage, it is important to understand what an ice dam is and how it forms. A qualified roofing specialist from Flat Roof Inc. can help you identify areas where ice dams may form on your roof and suggest solutions for preventing them from forming in the first place.

1. Ice dams can cause gutters to sag or pull away from the roof, as the accumulated ice can add weight strain to the existing gutter system.

2. If left unchecked, ice dams can cause leakage into your home by allowing water to enter through vulnerable points in the roof’s structure.

3. Ice dams can cause cracking in shingles and other materials on your roof due to expansion and contraction from changes in temperature.

4. Ice dams are a major contributor to ice-melt runoff from roofs, which can damage landscaping around the house and lead to costly repairs of walkways, lawns, gardens and pools.

5. Snow and ice accumulations on roofs caused by ice dams can block ventilation pathways, leading to poor air circulation throughout a home’s attic space.

6. The added moisture caused by snow melting onto roof surfaces due to an ice dam can result in mold growth inside of a home’s attic spaces and walls, posing a health risk for its occupants.

7. Ice dams also have the potential to decrease energy efficiency during cold months by causing heat loss from within a home due to icy insulation or gaps that form between roofing material and wall structures.

Taking proactive steps to prevent ice dams on your roof is the best way to protect your home from costly and damaging repairs. A qualified roofing specialist from Flat Roof Inc can help you identify areas prone to ice dam formation, as well as suggest solutions for keeping them at bay. With regular maintenance of your roof and gutter system, along with proper insulation in attic spaces, you can keep yourself safe from potential dangers caused by ice dams this winter season.