5 Reasons Ice Dams Form

Winter conditions can put several parts of your home at risk of damage. A usual issue homeowners face during this season is ice dams. It’s one of the most common reasons they get roof repair services. 

Read on to learn what causes ice dams and get tips on preventing them. 

1. Ice Buildup

Ice buildups on your roof increase the risk of ice dams. They occur when water melts on higher areas of your roof and refreezes on its edge. Failure to deal with this issue can result in leaks and extensive water damage. Moreover, ensuring sufficient attic ventilation is vital to preventing ice dams.  

2. Incorrect Roof Slope

Proper sloping is essential to keep water from pooling on your roof. Water will not drain quickly from your roof if incorrectly sloped, contributing to ice dam formation. Roofs with a slope of at least 4:12 are less likely to suffer from this issue. Good drainage will allow water to run off before it freezes and ice dams or icicles form. 

3. Clogged Gutters

There is a high chance of snow and ice building up in your gutters if it’s clogged or poorly maintained. Roofing experts recommend scheduling gutter cleaning at least twice a year to avoid this issue. 

4. Extremely Cold Weather

Freezing temperatures can negatively affect your roof’s drainage system. It would be more difficult for your gutters to drain water if it’s too cold. Even a few hours of rain during extremely-cold days can cause ice dams to form.

5. Large Amounts of Snow

Heavy snowfall is another common reason ice dams form. It occurs when the snow starts to melt all at once. Fortunately, you can prevent it by removing snow from your roof. If you don’t have experience doing the job, it’s best to leave it to professionals for your safety.

If you’re looking for experienced roofers for your project, turn to Diamond Roofing Specialists, Inc. We only use high-quality products backed with comprehensive warranties for our roofing services. Call us at (203) 754-7884 or fill out our online form to get a quote. We work with clients in New Haven, Bridgeport and Waterbury, CT.