Let’s narrow it down to why ice dams form. Ice dams for for many reasons and let’s understand the root causes.
If your attic is not insulated properly, you have an ice dam problem. Transfer of heat can melt the snow and turn it into ice in no time. How to determine if your attic is insulated properly? Place a thermometer in yoir attic and see if the temperature in the attic is same as outside or few degrees hotter is a good indication. Second thing to consider is if your house is feeling cold and your heating bill is too high. Lack of insulation is a leading cause of ice damming.
Did you know color of your roof can lead to ice damming also. Black roofs can speed up the melting process. As the sun fades away melting ends and ice starts to form.
Proper attic ventilation helps insulation do its job. Without fresh air, insulation does not work. Fresh air intake (baffles) must be open in order to allow fresh air entering your attic. Blocked baffles can lead to mold, ice dams and serious damage to the house. Exhaust ventilation on the roof must be significant for the square footage of the attic.
Shingles alone are not enough to protect you from the snow and ice. Having ice and water shield beneath the shingles is a must. Never cheap out when it comes to replacing your roof or you will pay a hefty price for the repairs. Second line of defence includes ice and water shield, underlay and proper metal valleys.
If you are in need of assistance for your roofing related problems, feel free to reach out to us. We offer free consultation.
Preventive Maintenance includes cleaning your gutters before the winter, making sure Eavestroughing is sloped properly, having a professional remove snow from your roof especially at the first 6 feet of your roof to allow snow to melt gradually.
Best regards.
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