Recognize, Prevent, and Treat the Winter Ice Dam

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these tips in order to Prevent Winter Ice Dam in your property.

When freezing temperatures settle in and snow accumulates in Rocky Mount, NC, the gutters around your roof could be affected by an ice dam or two. These blockages occur when melting snow runs to the roofline and freezes. If enough ice freezes here, it will stop melting snow water from draining away from the roof. Instead, the water may run below the rooftop shingles and into your attic causing expensive damage.

Prevention and Treatment for the Winter Ice Dam

Before the first winter storm hits, there are a few preventative steps you can take, such as maintaining an attic temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below:

Clear out the gutters and downspouts around the roof. Focus on creating a path for water to flow freely from the high points to the downspouts and away from the foundation of your home. During this maintenance, watch for low spots and puddling.

Make sure the attic is properly ventilated. If you're not sure how many vents are necessary for the type and size of your roof, reach out to an expert for advice. The next step is to make sure vents are free from dirt, pests, and other debris. An attic fan may also be a useful addition.

Update old insulation. Experts today recommend insulation with a value of R-40. A properly insulated attic keeps warmth inside your home and away from the roof. This step of ice dam prevention focuses on maintaining a cool temperature.

While inspecting your attic, pay attention to any openings where warm air could escape from your home. Keep a close eye on chimneys, exhaust fans, light fixtures, vent pipes, and any other opening between the ceiling and the attic.

Install an extra layer of protection with a water-repellent membrane below the shingles. This adds one more barrier between melting water and the inside of your home.

Identification of Dams in Your Gutters

Recognizing an ice dam is crucial to preventing water damage. Begin by watching for icicles that form around your home. Icicles show where water is flowing, so if they are developing above the top of or outside of the gutters, your home is at risk.

Monitor the level of humidity and moisture in the attic.

Another sign of trouble looks like water stains on the ceilings or walls inside your home.

Finally, look for moisture where the walls connect with the ceilings.

As soon as you notice these signs of developing water damage, take action to prevent further trouble. If you aren't sure how to proceed, contact water damage mitigation and repair professionals.

Safety During Removal of Frozen Dams

Before climbing up a ladder to treat the frozen water in your gutters, be sure you have taken steps to be safe. Ladders can be very slick in the winter. There is also an increased risk of injury due to heavy snow sliding off the roof and icicles coming off the roof.

Reach out to your insurance agent or other home care professionals to learn more about identifying and responding to an ice dam in Rocky Mount, NC.