4 Ice Dam Problems That Can Destroy Your Roof (And How to Stop Them Fast)

Ice dams present significant challenges to the structural integrity of your home. Often invisible at their onset, ice dams can cause extensive damage if left unaddressed. 

Water Damage to Interior and Exterior

The formation of ice dams, predominantly on the eaves and gutters of roofs, can impede the flow of melting snow, directing water into the home. This intrusion results in the deterioration of exterior roofing materials and, more critically, causes water damage to the interior spaces, including ceilings, walls, and insulation. Mold and mildew growth become considerable risks in these damp conditions, further threatening your home’s air quality and structural integrity.

Solution: Improve Insulation and Ventilation

The key to preventing the melt-and-freeze cycle that leads to ice dams is your attic’s insulation and ventilation. This involves sealing air leaks that allow warm air to escape from the home to the attic, thereby reducing the uneven heating of the roof. Ridge vents and continuous soffit vents can ensure a balanced airflow, keeping attic temperatures close to the outdoor temperature and reducing the chances of snow melting and refreezing at the eaves.

Gutter Damage

The excessive weight of ice accumulation can strain, bend, or even detach gutters from the home. If your gutters get damaged, they won’t be able to efficiently channel water away from your home, which can lead to foundational issues and basement flooding.

Solution: Regular Gutter Maintenance

To prevent gutter damage, schedule gutter cleaning and maintain your downspouts routinely before the winter season. This practice ensures that melting snow can flow freely, reducing the risk of water backup and ice formation. Installing gutter guards may also be beneficial in keeping debris out and reducing maintenance needs.

Roof Strain

Ice dams add unwelcome weight and pressure on roofing structures. Over time, the repetitive cycle of thawing and refreezing exacerbates wear on roofing materials, leading to premature aging and necessary roof repairs or replacements.

Solution: Proper Roofing Materials and Installation

Using roofing materials and underlayments designed to withstand harsh winter conditions is critical. Installing an ice and water shield along the eaves before laying shingles can provide an additional barrier against water infiltration.

Increased Risk of Injury and Liability

Icicles, though often considered a quintessential winter scene, pose risks of personal injury when they detach unexpectedly. Additionally, the slip hazard from meltwater refreezing on walkways and driveways around the home increases liability risks.

Solution: Use Calcium Chloride and Safe Ice Removal Techniques

To mitigate these risks, you may remove snow from the edge of your roof using a roof rake after heavy snowfall. Make sure to avoid direct contact with roofing shingles that might cause damage. Applying calcium chloride in a nylon stocking laid across the ice dam can also gently melt the ice without damaging your roof. However, preventative measures addressing insulation, ventilation, and proper gutter maintenance remain the most effective strategies.

With over 100 years of combined experience, Fargo Roofing & Siding has seen it all.  Call us today at (701) 371-7204 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment!