Ice dams are a common issue during the winter months for homeowners living in colder climates. Though they may seem like just another part of the winter landscape, these ridges of ice along the edges of your roof can lead to significant damage if not addressed. From roof leaks to water damage inside your home, the problems that come with ice dams can quickly become expensive. Understanding what causes them, how to prevent them, and what to do if they form can help you stay ahead of the damage.

Ice dams typically form when the heat from your attic rises and warms the roof, causing the snow on top to melt. This melted snow then flows down toward the colder eaves of the roof and refreezes. As this process repeats, it creates a buildup of ice that traps additional runoff from melting snow. When that trapped water has nowhere to go, it can back up under the shingles and leak into your home. There are a few common factors that contribute to this cycle. One of the main causes is poor attic insulation, which allows heat from your living space to seep into the attic and warm the roof unevenly. In addition, if your attic lacks proper ventilation, warm air becomes trapped, making the problem worse. Ice dams are also more likely to form when temperatures fluctuate—melting during the day and refreezing at night leads to repeated ice buildup.

Preventing ice dams starts with improving attic insulation. A well-insulated attic helps maintain a consistent temperature on the roof, preventing hot spots that cause snow to melt prematurely. Enhancing ventilation through ridge and soffit vents allows for better airflow, helping to regulate attic temperature and minimize warm air buildup. Sealing air leaks is another key step. Warm air often escapes through gaps around chimneys, bathroom vents, attic hatches, or recessed lights, and closing these off can significantly reduce heat loss. After a heavy snowfall, using a roof rake to clear snow from the lower portion of your roof can reduce the chance of ice formation. For homes that are particularly prone to ice dams, installing heat cables along the roof’s edge and in gutters can help keep water flowing and prevent freezing in trouble spots.

If an ice dam has already formed, acting quickly can help prevent further damage. Applying calcium chloride (not rock salt) can help melt the ice safely without harming your roof. In some cases, it’s possible to create small channels through the ice to allow trapped water to drain off the roof. However, this should be done carefully to avoid damaging the shingles. For large or persistent ice dams, it’s often best to call in a professional from Dynasty Restoration. Our trained experts have the equipment to remove ice safely and can help you address the underlying causes to prevent the problem from recurring.