Ice dams form when the roof over the attic becomes warm enough to melt the snow. The water then trickles down all the way to the eaves of the roof. The low temperature in the area refreezes the water until it gradually forms into a mound of ice.
If left unchecked, ice dams may cause serious damage. Melted water can seep underneath the shingles and eventually drip into the insulation down to the ceilings. When this reaches the exterior walls beneath the eaves, you may end up with ruined paint and sheet rock.
Deal with Ice Dams
As long as you take proper measures, you don’t have to worry about ice dams wreaking havoc on your home. In this post, Ensz & Sons shares ways to deal with ice dams as well as prevent them from happening in the first place.
Existing Ice Dams
Step 1. Remove the Ice Dams
Break the ice dams free in small chunks by tapping them lightly with a blunt mallet. Do not use an ax or any sharp tool to avoid cutting through the shingles.
Step 2. Clear the Gutters and Downspouts
Remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking your gutters or downspouts. This requires ladder work and is best if you leave this task to the experts.
Step 3. Melt Troughs
Melt troughs using calcium chloride ice melter. Do not use rock salt as it can damage metals, paint, and plants and other areas where the salty water will drain.
You can create a good trough-maker by cutting a leg from an old pair of panty hose. Fill your trough-maker with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and then lay it across the ice dam. It will clear a path for the underlying water by slowly melting its way down through the dam.
Reduces Ice Dams
Remove the snow from your roof immediately. You can use a snow rake from below or a plastic shovel from above. It also pays to keep the entire roof the same temperature as the eaves by installing efficient ventilation, adding insulation, and sealing off every possible air leak.
Having properly hanging gutters in Columbus MS, and the local area, is important, especially in the winter. Ice dams that break free can pull gutters off with them, which may damage anything they fall on, such as windowsills, shrubs, and cars. Making sure your gutters are installed securely can help prevent accidents.
You should also consider installing an effective gutter protection system to prevent leaves, tree needles, and other muck from finding their way into your gutters. By making sure your gutters are clog-free, you prevent standing water from happening in the first place, which is one of the most common causes of ice dams.
Ensz & Sons is proud to be an exclusive Gutter Helmet dealer in East Central Mississippi. Let us help you reduce ice dams by installing an efficient gutter protection system! Call us today to get a free quote.
