An ice dam occurs in freezing temperatures when warmer air enters into an area where cold air exists. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. The warm moist air heads towards the ground and freezes when making contact with an area that’s below freezing, such as a snow covered roof in wintertime.
How do ice dams form on roofs?
Ice dams form when the snow melts on an upper, warmer part of a roof. The water then runs down toward the colder eave, where it freezes into ice. As the ice accumulates, it can back up under the roof shingles, where it melts again, soaking the roof sheathing and leaking into the attic.
How do snow dams work and what causes them?
As the melting snow trickles down from your warm roof to your home’s frigid, detached eave and gutter, it freezes and creates an ice block. The ice block effectively turns into a dam as water continues to melt, and the melted water remains trapped behind the dam.
What happens when water backs up behind an ice dam?
So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid. This water finds cracks and openings in the exterior roof covering and flows into the attic space. From the attic it could flow into exterior walls or through the ceiling insulation and stain the ceiling finish.
How do you get rid of ice dams on a roof?
Use a roof rake after heavy snowfalls: Ice dams appear quickly after a heavy snow because of the insulating properties of snow. Using a long-handled roof rake to removing the snow from at least at lower 4 feet of roof edge can help prevent ice dams from forming.
How do you get rid of ice dams fast?
The Best Ways To Get Rid of Ice Dams Use hot water: Running hot water over the ice dam, gently, will melt it and allow the water to drain out through the gutters. Install heat cable: You can have heat cables installed on the roof in the summertime which will then be there come cold weather to melt the ice dam for you.
Can ice dams be prevented?
Preventing ice dams can be done through a combination of: Ventilation under the roof deck, which keeps colder outside air circulating through the attic and prevents it from warming above the freezing point so it can melt snow on the roof.
Does ice dam damage the roof?
The answer to "can ice dams cause roof damage" is a resounding yes. Left untreated, ice dams can cause significant damage to your roof, shingles, and attic spaces. It's important to take steps to prevent ice dams from forming as well as remove snow from the edges of your roof.
How long does it take for ice dams to form?
How long does it take for an ice dam to form on a roof? 24 hours is about the least amount of time required for an ice dam to form.
Is ice dam damage covered by insurance?
Does Insurance Cover Ice Dams? If an ice dam damages your roof, don't fret. It's common for homeowners insurance to cover ice dam damage. American Family's standard homeowner's policy covers sudden and accidental damage from leaking roofs and damage from weight of ice, snow or sleet.
Do icicles mean Poor insulation?
"Icicles mean you're losing some heat and it also could mean you have poor ventilation in your attic," said Larsen and that's where his infrared camera comes into play. They can be used to show where heat is escaping a home. "Have someone take a look in your attic to see that your insulation is intact.
Do ice dams always cause leaks?
No. Just because you have an ice dam doesn't necessarily mean there will be resulting damage when the snow and ice clears.
Should you knock icicles off gutters?
Should you knock down icicles? Knocking down large icicles that have formed along the roof or gutter edge is dangerous, especially if you're knocking them down while standing below.
Do gutter guards prevent ice dams?
Gutter guards DO NOT prevent ice damming or icicles, however they do prevent debris from entering into your gutters.
Do metal roofs prevent ice dams?
Metal roofing can help but is not an ice dam panacea. A metal roof will generally shed snow better, but snow running down the roof will still freeze on the unheated overhangs, creating an ice dam. Metal roofing can be just as susceptible to this as any other roof.
How do I prevent ice dams in my house?
Ice dams can be prevented by controlling the heat loss from the home. Remove snow from the roof. This eliminates one of the ingredients necessary for the formation of an ice dam. A "roof rake" and push broom can be used to remove snow, but may damage the roofing materials.
How do you prevent ice dams on a low slope roof?
Preventing Ice Dams on RoofsRemove Snow from the Roof. When you notice snow building up on your roof, it is advised to have it removed because this prevents ice dams from forming. ... Attic Insulation. This is one of the primary measures to help you prevent ice dams. ... Roof Ventilation. ... Examine Eavestroughs. ... Roof Inspection.
Does homeowners insurance cover ice damage to gutters?
A standard homeowners insurance policy may provide coverage for ice-related damage resulting from hail, the weight of snow, sleet, or ice, and burst pipes. If your policy covers these ice-related perils, you can file a claim for the damage resulting from them.
How do you prevent ice dams on a low slope roof?
Preventing Ice Dams on RoofsRemove Snow from the Roof. When you notice snow building up on your roof, it is advised to have it removed because this prevents ice dams from forming. ... Attic Insulation. This is one of the primary measures to help you prevent ice dams. ... Roof Ventilation. ... Examine Eavestroughs. ... Roof Inspection.
Do gutter guards prevent ice dams?
Gutter guards DO NOT prevent ice damming or icicles, however they do prevent debris from entering into your gutters.
Should you knock icicles off gutters?
Should you knock down icicles? Knocking down large icicles that have formed along the roof or gutter edge is dangerous, especially if you're knocking them down while standing below.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Ice dams are caused by a build-up of snow and ice along your roof which causes the water to freeze in your eavestroughs. This blockage means that the water caused by your snow melting has nowhere to go, making it collect and freeze in your eavestrough. This is bad news because this collection of ice can weigh down your eavestrough and cause them to become warped and break away from your house.
What Can Happen if an Ice Dam Builds Up?
The biggest problem that can happen to your home with ice dams is if water leaks into it. This can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your house. From the insulation and drywall to the structure of your home, water can quickly cause a lot of problems that are very expensive to fix. Plus you may deal with mold if the water gets into your house and isn’t addressed properly.
How Do You Get Rid of Ice Dams?
You should never turn to using a hammer or chisel when removing ice dams because you’re more likely to cause damage to your roof and shingles than to the ice dam. Salt is also ineffective when the snow and ice have built up to the point of creating a dam on your roof. There are steps you can take that should help with the snow and ice build up on your roof causing the ice dam to appear. Here are seven of the most effective ways to combat ice dams on your roof:
How Much Does it Cost to Have Ice Dams Removed?
The average cost of getting an ice dam removed is $1000. This amount is based on three hours of labor for a two-story, 1500 square foot home. Of course, that number is going to vary depending on who you hire, the degree that the ice dam has grown, where the ice dam is located, and how long it takes to melt from your roof.
Why does my roof freeze?
Ice dams are caused by a build-up of snow and ice along your roof which causes the water to freeze in your eavestroughs. This blockage means that the water caused by your snow melting has nowhere to go, making it collect and freeze in your eavestrough. This is bad news because this collection of ice can weigh down your eavestrough and cause them to become warped and break away from your house.
How much does it cost to remove an ice dam?
The average cost of getting an ice dam removed is $1000 . This amount is based on three hours of labor for a two-story, 1500 square foot home. Of course, that number is going to vary depending on who you hire, the degree that the ice dam has grown, where the ice dam is located, and how long it takes to melt from your roof.
How far up should you put ice shield on a roof?
When you are installing a new roof, make sure you are also installing the ice and water shield at least 7 feet up each heated wall.
What Is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam is ice that forms a ridge at the edges of your roof. This forms a sort of hump or ledge of ice that prevents water and debris from draining off of your roof properly.
How to prevent ice dams?
Each time there’s a snowstorm or snowfall, try to take the time to remove the snow from the roof. This will prevent the snow from melting and forming an ice dam.
What causes ice dams on roofs?
Ice dams form under specific snowy or freezing conditions. When there is snowfall, it will accumulate on your roof. The heat from inside your home and attic can then cause the lowermost layer of snow to melt.
Why is the eaves of my roof colder than the ridges?
The eaves and ridges of the roof are much colder than other points on your roof because they extend away from the home, avoiding the heat and staying the cold temperature of the air outside.
What to do if your home is prone to ice dams?
If your home is prone to ice dam formation, it’s best to speak with a professional roofer to determine the best way to prevent or remove them.
Can you remove ice dams with a hammer?
You should know that one thing you should NOT do is remove ice dams once they form with a hammer, chisel or any other tool. This could cause serious injury to yourself or others.
Can ice dams cause shingles to be lifted?
Externally, your roof, gutters, plants, walls, and exterior paint can be damaged. Ice dams and the excess water that causes them can also lead to lifted or damaged shingles, which bring a whole slew of issues.
How does an ice dam form?
The dam will form when indoor heating rises through the ceiling into the attic and then warms the roof’s surface. Snow from the higher end of the roof will then melt and flow down near the bottom until it reaches the part of the roof that is below 32 degrees. The water will then refreeze into an ice dam.
What is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam is a blockage of ice that forms on the edge of a roof. They literally create a dam that keeps ice and snowmelt from flowing properly through your gutters and out your downspouts. If you notice large icicles forming on the corners of your home or gutters, that’s a tell-tale sign you have ice dams forming on your roof. The dam will then continue to grow as more melted snow works its way down the roof.
What Problems Can Ice Dams Cause?
Both their weight and the moisture from melting snow and ice create very damaging conditions.
How do you know if you have an ice dam?
If you notice large icicles forming on the corners of your home or gutters, that’s a tell-tale sign you have ice dams forming on your roof. The dam will then continue to grow as more melted snow works its way down the roof.
How to prevent ice dams?
The best way to remedy this is to get your home a blower door test to find any inefficiencies in your home. These tests work through depressurizing your home and then using a thermal camera to find areas where insulation is poor. At First American, our first step towards preventing an ice dam from coming back is by doing this home energy assessment. We’ll see how well the ventilation is working in your home and where the air leaks are, as well as where your home’s insulation can be improved.
What part of your home takes the brunt of the force from winter storms and snow?
The part of your home that takes the brunt of the force from winter storms and snow? Your roof . During the cold winter months, your roof can sustain all types of damage. Large amounts of snow can cause harm to the roof, as can blistering winter winds, especially when accompanied by hail and sleet.
Why is it important to remove ice dams?
Removing ice dams is critical to ensure that your home stays in a healthy condition during the winter. When water gets caught between the melting point and the ice dam, it sits on your roof for an extended period of time and will eventually find its way through your roof and into your home. This can potentially cause serious amounts of damage.
What is an ice dam?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.
Why does the ice dam grow?
This causes the ice dam. The dam grows as it is fed by the melting snow above it, but it will limit itself to the portions of the roof that average below 32F. So the water above backs up behind the ice dam and remains a liquid.
How can ice dams be prevented?
Ice dams can be prevented by controlling the heat loss from the home.
How does ice dam affect mold?
Effects of ice dams. Moisture entering the home from ice dams can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These can cause respiratory problems. Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
What are the sources of heat in the attic?
Other sources of heat in the attic space include chimneys. Frequent use of wood stoves and fireplaces allow heat to be transferred from the chimney into the attic space. Inadequately insulated or leaky duct work in the attic space will also be a source of heat. The same can be said about knee wall spaces.
What temperature does ice dam form?
For ice dams to form there must be snow on the roof and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof's outside surface must be above 32 degrees F (freezing) while lower surfaces are below 32F. These are average temperatures over sustained periods of time.
How does heat transfer from the hot pan to the hand?
The rising air carries heat/energy to your hand. This is heat transfer by convection. Heat also transfers from the hot pan to your hand by electromagnetic waves and this is called radiation. Another example of radiation is to stand outside on a bright sunny day and feel the heat from the sun.
How do I keep ice dams from coming back?
In the short term you can keep ice dams from reforming by diligently removing all of the snow from the roof area above the ice dam (s ). If you would like to permanently keep the ice dams from reoccurring you need to look into adjustments to your home including insulation, ventilation, air-sealing and possibly roofing. If all else fails we can install commercial grade heat cables.
How much do ice dam heat cables cost?
The cost to install professional grade ice dam heat tape varies from job to job. Click here for more information.
Do we use steam to remove ice dams?
Yes. We do. Most companies that claim to be using steam are actually using high temperature pressure washers. Want to know how to tell the difference from a distance? If the gun being used by the technician on the roof has a trigger it is NOT a steamer. True steamers can not use triggered guns, they must remain flowing or the machinery will explode.
Will ice dams come back?
If the conditions are right, the chances are strong that your ice dams will return in as little as one or two weeks unless you aggressively manage the snow load on your roof. That means roof shoveling done by you or by us. If you want to avoid ice dams altogether you should consider long-term solutions ( discussed here ).
How does our process work?
It’s simple. We need water and electricity to run our steamers. We get both from the inside of your home. Depending on your desires we shovel all or part or your roof and then steam off your ice dams. While on your roof we will make note of anything amiss and bring it to your attention. Our guys are professional, fully insured roofers, not landscapers, painters or window washers.
Do icicles mean ice dams?
No. Icicles do not mean you have ice dams. In fact, you can have massive ice dams and not experience leaking into your home (which is the ultimate reason you don’t want ice dams). Of course, heavy accumulations of ice on eaves and in gutters can cause structural failure and damage but it usually takes quite a bit of ice to do that. Click here to see our popular diagram of the Six Warning Signs of Ice Dams.
How can I tell if my contractor is actually using steam?
Does the machine you use have a triggered gun? If the answer is ‘yes’ then it is not a true steamer. Why does it matter? Because high temperature pressure washers take longer to remove ice (costs you more) and they are likely to damage your cold, brittle roof (costs you a lot more). If you would like to seriously geek out and understand the difference and why it matters to you call the countries leading expert in ice dam steaming equipment. His name is Ben and he owns American Pressure Incorporated and they happen to be located here in Minnesota. His number is: 763-521-4442.
Do These Ice Dams Look Familiar?
How Do Ice Dams form?
- Ice dams are a large mass of ice that form on your home’s gutters and eaves. The eave is the edge of the roof that overhangs atop the perimeter of your home. As your roof warms from the temperature in the interior of your home, it will melt the snow on top. As the melting snow trickles down from your warm roof to your home’s frigid, detached eave a...
How Can Ice Dams Damage Your Home?
- Leaks In The Interior Of Your Home
As water is trapped on top of your roof in the ice dam, it will slowly begin to trickle into your attic and in between your shingles. This can completely ruin the R-value of insulation in your attic, both by wetting it and by causing mold. R value, in short, measures how well your insulation can lock … - Damage Gutters
As ice melts and refreezes, the buildup of the ice dam can weigh down your gutters causing gutter separation and leaking. Worst case scenario, that portion of your gutter can collapseand fall if it becomes heavy enough.