Ice Dam Removal
Have you noticed icicles hanging from your roof this season? Although they may offer a sense of winter beauty, icicles are not as harmless as they seem. In fact, they often stem from ice dams, which can cause extensive damage to your roof and gutters.
Concerned your home might have ice damming? Contact Oaks Roofing & Siding right away.
What is an Ice Dam?
Ice dams form when snow on a roof repeatedly melts and refreezes. Rooftop snow can melt from warmer daytime temperatures or because of a poorly ventilated attic. The melted snow flows towards the edge of the roof, where it is colder. This results in the water refreezing, forming a ridge of ice.
An ice dam can worsen over time if additional snow melts and refreezes as part of the dam or behind it.
How to Remove Ice Dams
Removing ice dams can be dangerous, and we never recommend doing it yourself. Always call a professional like Oaks Roofing & Siding to handle it for you.
We have the right equipment and experience to safely and quickly check your roofing system and determine the best plan to protect it.
Our Process
Our expert Oaks Roofing & Siding crew will visit your home after you schedule an appointment. We’ll evaluate three main components to determine the best next steps for your home. Then, we will discuss the comprehensive options with you, from immediate action to long-term ice dam prevention.
The three main components we’ll evaluate include:
Ice Damming
During the examination, we check for signs of ice damming, including large icicles on your roof and water or ice on your siding.
Ventilation
We will evaluate your ventilation system for proper intake and exhaust. This is necessary to keep cool air flowing in and hot air flowing out.
Insulation
We’ll assess your home’s insulation to determine if it adequately prevents heat loss through the roof.
Need an ice dam removal service near you? Contact the experts at Oaks Roofing and Siding.
Signs of Ice Damming
There are several indications that you may have an ice dam. Look for these signs:
Icicles: Small icicles are not uncommon along rooftops, but large icicles with thick bases are not a good sign. Look at the icicles along the edge of your roof near the eaves and gutters. If you can see a ridge of thick ice along the roof’s edge or forming over your gutters, you should contact an expert.
Exterior Walls: Check the sides of your home for water dripping down or ice forming on the siding.
Water Damage: Look for water stains or even moisture on ceilings or walls. Take a closer look at the inside of your home, especially on the upstairs ceiling. Moisture in your home can also increase the risk of mold and mildew.
Ice Dam Damage
Ice dams should not be ignored. One of the risks includes a leaky roof, which can cause water damage to your ceiling or attic. But it doesn’t stop there. It can also harm your roof’s decking and the attic’s insulation, structural beams, framing, and rafters.
Ice damming also impacts gutters, warping or tearing them off your home. It can also loosen shingles, damage roof sheathing, or warp soffits.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Here are a few simple things you can do to reduce the chances of ice damming.
Remove Snow: Call a professional who can sweep or push snow from your roof using a roof rake or push broom. The weight from the snow will be reduced, and so will your chance of ice damming.
Clean Gutters: A professional can clear your gutters and downspouts from leaves, sticks, and debris so melted snow and ice can flow into them.
Seal Leaks: A roofing expert can seal and insulate around the joints of your HVAC system and exhaust ducts. They can caulk around any electrical cables and vent pipes, too.
Insulation and Ventilation: Have your roofing system evaluated by a professional. An expert can determine if your attic is well insulated and has good airflow from the eaves and roof vents.
Oaks Roofing & Siding: Ice Damming Experts
At Oaks Roofing & Siding, we’re here to help you with all your ice damming needs. Whether you need ice dam removal or damage repair, our experts will walk you through every option. If you’re ready for a professional to help with ice damming, contact us today.