Fall is here, and that means winter is not far behind. During the winter months, one of the biggest problems that roofs face is ice dams. Ice dams can damage your roof in a number of different ways, and need to be dealt with by a roofing contractor in a timely manner. Read on to learn more about ice dams and get answers to the questions that you may have about them.
How Do Ice Dams Form?
Ice dams form when water falling from the roof starts to freeze. Typically, this happens as snow on a roof slowly starts to melt. The water starts to make its way off of the roof, but cold temperatures cause it to freeze in the gutter or on the roof itself. This frozen block then prevents water from flowing off the roof, and the cycle continues and the ice dam grows in size.
What Types of Damage Do Ice Dams Cause?
Ice dams can cause problems in a lot of different ways. First off, ice dams can be heavy, and that can put weight on your asphalt shingles or ceramic tiles, causing them to crack. Once the tiles crack, water can then leak in through the crack, and you can have water damage or a roof leak. Additionally, the weight of large ice dams can prevent part of your roof to collapse, especially if your roof is old.
Why Does a Professional Need to Remove Ice Dams?
If an ice dam has formed, you need to contact a roofing contractor. You should never attempt to thaw or remove the ice dam on your own. Using hot water to remove the ice dam can cause your roofing materials to expand from the heat, which can lead to your roofing materials cracking. A roofing contractor can remove the ice dam and then inspect your roofing materials, making any repairs that may be needed in the process.
Can Ice Dams Be Prevented?
There are a few things that can be done to prevent ice dams. Cleaning your gutters before winter helps water to flow away from your roof without getting clogged by debris. Raking snow from your roof can help to prevent the snow from melting on your roof, preventing an ice dam. Lastly, roofing contractors can install heat cables on your roof, helping to keep your roof warmer and preventing ice dams from forming.
Ice dams can be damaging to your roof, especially if they start to get large and heavy. If you have an ice dam forming on your roof, you will need to contact roofing contractors as soon as possible to help remove the ice dam. Reach out to your preferred roofer to get started.
Contact a local roofing company, such as CB Chandler Roofing, to learn more.
