Is it responsible for you (as a homeowner) to remove an ice dam yourself? If so, can you perform this task safely? Do you face the risk of damaging your home by extracting an ice dam? What options exist to dissolve an ice dam before it causes other issues? Are there effective means to stop ice dams from forming? We’ll explore the answers to these ice dam removal and prevention questions below.
What Causes An Ice Dam?
Ice dams form in climates where temperature changes generate a melting and refreezing effect. Residential roofing systems on homes along Colorado’s Front Range are particularly susceptible to ice damming. In frigid winter months, heavy snowfalls produce accumulation on the roof. During the relative warmth of the daytime (if it is above freezing), snow thaws and flows down the roof’s slope. Snowmelt refreezes at the eaves when temperatures drop below freezing.
Additionally, warm air from inside the home rises through the attic and contributes to the melting effect of snow situated high on the roof. At the eaves, little to no warm air escapes. Consequently, snowmelt refreezes into ice, resulting in an ice dam. Subsequent snowmelt flows down to the ice dam but cannot pass through. Instead, it refreezes and enlarges the ice dam. Eventually, the weight of the ice dam will place substantial structural stress on the roofing system.
Risks Of DIY Ice Dam Removal
Roofing professionals know there is no 100% safe way to remove an ice dam. An ice dam is far heavier than one might imagine. It is densely packed and will risk severe injury or death if it falls on you, especially if it drops from several feet over your head. Additionally, extracting an ice dam could create substantial damage to your home. Hacking away at an ice dam with a shovel, hammer, or sharp implement could puncture the roof’s surface, leading to roof leaks.
Responsible Ice Dam Removal
A conscientious homeowner will hire a trained, experienced roofing professional to safely remove an ice dam using suitable equipment and procedures. They will extract the ice dam without damaging your roof or home. A professional will typically employ various measures to remove the ice dam, including a steamer, heat cables, or tablets. These methods melt the ice safely and effectively. Depending on the circumstances, a roof rake or hot water pressure washer can sometimes be used.
Long-Term Solutions To Prevent Ice Dams
As a homeowner, you may ask whether practical and affordable options exist to stop ice dams from forming. Thankfully, several remedies are available.
Add Gutter Guards/Shields
Clogged gutters do not benefit a home. Unfortunately, most homeowners fail to consider the importance of periodically extracting debris from the gutters. Consequently, without guards, gutter channels cannot efficiently transport snowmelt from the roof to the downspouts.
Clean Gutters Before Winter
Although roofing professionals debate whether clogged gutters meaningfully contribute to ice dams, responsible homeowners should remove leaves, sticks, and other debris from the gutter channels and downspouts to ensure the free flow of rainwater and snowmelt from the roof.
Ensure Proper Exhaust Ventilation
For many homes, the bathroom, kitchen, dryer, and other ventilation leads outside via the roof. Excess heat buildup may result if any of these vents don’t exhaust correctly. A home with a heat imbalance (e.g., heat accumulation in the attic) is more susceptible to ice damming.
Improve Roof & Attic Ventilation
With the requisite roof and attic ventilation, a home can breathe correctly. Air circulation through intake and exhaust vents guarantees a reasonable balance of cool, refreshing air from outside entering the attic and warm, stale air from inside expelling out of the home.
Increase Or Replace Insulation
A well-insulated attic with proper R-value insulation will prevent excess heat buildup underneath the roof. Sufficient insulation helps ensure adequate airflow. Unfortunately, most homes lack the appropriate level and type of insulation.
Install Heat Cables Along The Eaves
Your home’s eaves are the most vulnerable area for ice dam formation because the eaves don’t have an adjacent heat source. Electric heating cables run diagonally along your roof’s edges (or eaves) and in the gutters. They provide heat where it is lacking to prevent ice damming.
Seal & Waterproof Air Leaks
Gaps and other separations in your roofing system may create a heat imbalance, leading to ice dam formation. Hire a knowledgeable roofing contractor to assess the system for vulnerabilities. They can identify often “hidden” problems that cause inefficiencies.
Finding A Qualified Roofing Contractor
Homeowners across the Front Range (including Denver and Fort Collins) can depend on Red Diamond Roofing to provide exceptional roofing services. We know the ins and outs of winter roofing solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our comprehensive residential roof management services.
