Winter is just around the corner, and we all know what the freezing temperatures and relentless snow can lead to—ice dams on our roofs. But what exactly are ice dams? Why do they happen, and how can you avoid them? To answer your question, Wrightway and Gutter Helmet®, the dynamic duo of gutter protection systems in Milwaukee Wisconsin, have prepared this two-part blog to help you deal with your ice dam problems.
An ice dam is a mass of ice that forms on the edge of your roof. It prevents melted snow from spilling into the gutters—creating a “dam,” hence the name. Ice dams are a big problem for most homeowners as they collect water on your roof, which can damage your shingles. Water that finds its way into your home will manifest itself through ugly stained ceilings, peeling paint, and damaged walls. It can also damage the gutters as the weight of the accumulated ice causes the gutters to sag and eventually fall off.
What causes these ice dams to form? Ice dams form when your roof warms due to inadequate insulation and ventilation. The heat from your home’s interiors rises up to your attic, and if you have poor insulation, the heat will eventually warm the roof itself. Once this happens, the ice on your roof will naturally melt and cascade down to the slope of your roof. When it reaches the edge where the temperature is still below freezing, the water will freeze. This mound of ice gets bigger and bigger over time, which creates a barrier that traps melted snow.
What can you do about ice dams? You can call a roofing and gutter professional like Wrightway, your hometown expert in roof and gutter covers in Milwaukee WI. The task of removing ice dams on your roof should be entrusted to trained professionals as they can ensure the quick and safe removal without causing damage to the roof. Click here <2nd blog URL> to learn how you can reduce ice dams.
