Severe winter weather can wreak havoc on your home if you’re not prepared when storms roll around. One of those potential dangers, not only for your house but also for your safety, is ice damming. This bizarre occurrence affects and causes costly damage to many houses each year, so we’re here to help you stay ahead and help you when you need it.
What are Ice Dams?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that has formed on the ledge of a roof. For these to form, there must be snow piled on the roof, while the temperature at the top is more than 32 degrees Fahrenheit and the lower surfaces are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, causing melting on one end and freezing on another. This temperature difference is most often caused by heat from your home due to air leakage.
This ice ledge is dangerous because it prevents water from melting snow from safely flowing off the roof. Instead, the water builds up and can leak into your home and damage, including mildew and mold growth on walls, ceilings, insulation, and more. This damage can be costly, inconvenient, and potentially affect your health from breathing in mold and mildew if it has grown as a result. As well, ice dams can be a hazard to individuals outside that can unexpectedly have snow, ice, or icicles fall on them.
How to Fix Ice Damming
It’s important not to let ice damming sit and take immediate action, so here are a few things you can do to solve the problem:
- Use a roof rake – A push broom can be used to quickly remove snow that’s piled up on your roof, but it’s possible to damage your roof in the process unknowingly.
- Hose with tap water – In a dire situation, you can use a house and warm water to start the melting process.
- Improve your home’s insulation – Thinking long-term, seal any air leaks that would cause higher temperatures on the top areas of your roof.
- Call a Professional – The safest and most effective way to get rid of ice damming dangers is to call a team of expert professionals to handle the job so no one is injured and to ensure your home is safe as well.
ICE DAM REMOVAL IN NORWALK, CT
Need help removing ice dams from your home safely? The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home is safe this winter season and all year long! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.