A troublesome ice dam is formed when a ridge of frozen precipitation accumulates at the edge of the roof, inhibiting melting snow from draining off properly. The water that becomes trapped behind this obstacle can lead to disastrous consequences such as leaks into walls, ceilings and insulation – ultimately causing major damage to your home.
Effects of Ice Dams
When moisture from ice dams penetrates the home, it can create an environment for mold and mildew to grow. This can cause serious respiratory problems which should be addressed immediately.
- Prevent the growth of mold and mildew by immediately drying out portions of the house that are wet or damp.
- Take immediate action to get rid of the water source, clean the home environment and maintain its air quality.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Heat escaping a house, snow accumulation and cold temperatures can combine to result in ice dams. In order for this phenomenon to take shape, there must be both snow on the roof as well as portions of the outer surface that are above 32 degrees Fahrenheit while other areas remain below freezing point. A sustained period with these temperature changes is necessary for any part of the rooftop to reach subfreezing levels—which means outside air needs to also stay at or lower than 32F (or 0°C).
When snow hits a roof and the temperature is above 32F, it will melt. The water then runs down to a colder section of the roof and instantly freezes, causing an ice dam to form.
As the snow melts and supplies the dam, it will keep itself within those regions of your roof that maintain an average temperature below 32F. Therefore, any water beyond this point will be backed up behind ice dams. This liquid then seeks out openings or cracks in your exterior covering and pours into your attic space – perhaps even through ceilings or walls! In addition, ceiling finishes may become stained due to this influx of water from melted snow.
Long- and short-term ice dam control
Don’t let ice dams ruin your home! Mitigate the heat loss from inside and remove as much snow off the roof before it has a chance to form. Utilize either a roof rake or push broom, however be mindful of not damaging any materials during this process. Additionally, make sure that no warm air can enter through holes in the ceiling – seal up those gaps so you don’t have to worry about an icy dam forming later on down the road.
If the recommended practices are executed correctly, then natural roof ventilation can help keep uniform temperatures on your rooftop – and only minimal amounts of extra venting will be necessary. However, if heat transfer has been dramatically reduced, snow accumulation on the rooftop could smother any naturally occurring ventilation systems, diminishing attic airflow. Natural attic vents are still mandatory to dry out excess moisture during summer months and stave off unbearably hot conditions inside your home.
Preventing Ice Dams in New Homes
In order to prevent the formation of ice dams, homes that are newly constructed should meet – or exceed – all insulation levels and air barrier requirements as set forth by state regulations. An effective air barrier should completely ward off any potential leakage from within a house into an attic space. If your home is equipped with recessed lights, skylights, complex roof designs and heating ducts in the attic area then additional attention must be paid due to their greater propensity for creating conditions favorable for forming ice dams.
Our team of experts at Roof Wizards is here to help you come to the right decision! If you have more questions about roofing materials, or you’re ready to get a new roof installed, contact us today and get your free estimate.