We're Heading Into Ice Dam Season

A Homeowner’s Guide to Prevention & Treatment

What Are Ice Dams?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that typically accumulates along the edges or eaves of your roof. When heat escapes from your home’s attic, it warms the roof surface and melts the layer of snow. The resulting water then flows to the colder edges and refreezes, creating a dam. As this dam grows, melted snow and ice back up behind it, leading to potential leaks and water damage under shingles.

Why Are Ice Dams a Problem?

• Shingle Damage - Continuous freezing and thawing can loosen, crack, or warp shingles, eventually leading to leaks.

• Interior Leaks - Trapped water can seep through the roof deck into your attic and home, staining ceilings, damaging insulation, and promoting mold growth.

• Gutter & Downspout Damage - Excessive ice buildup adds weight to gutters, causing them to sag, detach, or break entirely.

Signs of Ice Dam Formation

• Large Icicles - If you notice long icicles hanging along your eaves or gutters, it may signal an ice dam is forming.

• Water Stains or Damp Spots - Look for staining on your ceiling or in the attic—this can indicate leaks from trapped water.

• Gutter Deformation - Gutters that appear bent, sagging, or pulling away from the roof could be weighed down by ice.

Are Roof Rakes Safe?

A roof rake can help remove snow from the edges of your roof to reduce the risk of ice dams—if used properly. But there are two key concerns:

1. Personal Safety

   • Standing on icy ground or reaching overhead can lead to falls or injuries.

   • Heavy chunks of snow or ice can dislodge and fall, posing a risk to anyone below.

2. Roof/Shingle Damage

   • Aggressive or improper raking may lift or scrape shingles.

   • If the rake has sharp edges, it can tear or damage roofing materials.

Important: If you feel uncomfortable or conditions are unsafe, call a professional roofer. Your safety should always come first.

Safe and Effective Homeowner Steps

1. Clear Snow Gently (If Safe)

• Use a roof rake with a protective, non-metal edge.

• Stand on the ground—never climb onto a slippery roof.

• Work in small sections, pulling snow down gently to avoid injuring yourself or damaging your shingles.

2. Keep Gutters Debris-Free

• Ensure gutters are free from leaves, twigs, and other debris so melting snow can drain properly.

• If gutters are already clogged with ice or if accessing them is risky, contact a pro rather than attempt to chip away at the ice.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

1. Improve Attic Insulation

A well-insulated attic keeps warm air in your home instead of heating the roof. Adding or upgrading attic insulation not only reduces ice dams but also lowers heating bills. Consult a professional for the right type and amount of insulation.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Adequate attic ventilation stabilizes roof temperatures and helps prevent snow from melting too quickly. Ridge vents, soffit vents, and attic fans can all help—get a professional assessment to find the best solution for your home.

3. Seal Air Leaks

Small gaps around recessed lights, attic hatches, or plumbing vents allow warm air to escape into the attic. Sealing these leaks with caulk or foam is a cost-effective way to reduce ice dam risk.

Know When to Call a Professional

• Large Ice Dams - If they’ve already formed and are causing leaks, a roofing pro can remove them safely using specialized equipment like steamers.

• Suspected Roof Damage - Water stains, sagging gutters, or cracked shingles are signs you should schedule an inspection.

• Persistent Issues - If you’ve tried DIY solutions without success, a professional can provide targeted, long-term remedies.

Note: Removing ice dams without the right tools or expertise can lead to more damage and higher repair costs in the long run.

Conclusion

Ice dams are a serious wintertime threat that can cause extensive damage to your roof, attic, and interior. While homeowners can handle some preventive measures—like clearing snow gently from the eaves and maintaining clean gutters—other tasks require the knowledge and equipment of a professional roofing contractor.