What is an "Ice Dam," and Why Are They a Threat?

Icicles dangling from homes in the winter may paint a pretty picture, but they cause more harm than meets the eye. Icicles are a major sign of ice dams, which can be one of your home’s worst enemies. Learn more about ice dams and how to avoid the potential damage they cause during the snowy, winter months below.

What Is An Ice Dam?

Ice dams are continuous chunks of ice that form along your roof. Without proper removal, the ice that develops may grow large enough to prevent snow from melting and water from properly draining off the roof. If this happens, the water may back up underneath your roof shingles and make it’s way into your home.

Do You Have An Ice Dam?

Most ice dams develop on the edge of your roof, but they can form in other locations. It all depends on the slope, orientation, and style of your roof. Be sure to monitor all areas for signs of ice dam formations.

• Check your icicles - If icicles have formed at the gutters and there is no water trapped behind them, an ice dam has not formed. However, icicles are still a sign that ice dams are occurring. Whenever possible, remove icicles from the exterior of your home - but do not stand beneath them!
• Check for water stains or moisture - Check for water stains in your attic or along the ceiling of your home. This excessive moisture can be a sign that an ice dam has formed and water has come through the roof of your home. 

How To Stop Ice Dams

One of the best ways to prevent an ice dam is by simply keeping your attic and roof cold. After a snowfall, a cold roof will have a thick blanket of snow. A warmer roof, however, will have clear spots where the snow has melted and will have icicles hanging from the eaves.

1. Close up your attic bypass - In an average home, about one-third of the heat loss is through the ceiling or attic. Try fixing any air leaks caused by unblocked walls, gaps in drywall, and cracks around light fixtures. You’ll end up saving energy and reduce both your heating and air conditioning bills all while preventing ice dams!


2. Measure your attic insulation level - Check the amount of insulation you have in your attic. If you have less than eight inches, hire a professional to add more!


3. Add roof and soffit vents - This process will draw in cold outdoor air and flush out warmer attic air, cooling the attic and the roof in the process. 

Do you want to avoid this problem this winter season? Allow the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters to help! We will install a heated cable into your gutters to help prevent the formation of an ice dam and water entering your home. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call 631-816-2498 today.