An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the roof’s edge. It usually spells trouble because it prevents melting snow from running and draining off the roof, resulting in damage to the roof. Ice dam damage appears in many forms. Are you aware of its dangers and damages? In today’s article, your steel roofs contractor will delve into the matter in detail.
Ice Dam Damage
- Water damage. As ice backs up under the roof and comes in contact with warm air from the inside of the house, it melts. The resulting water can cause damage to ceilings, walls, floors, and insulation. Severe water damage can lead to collapsed ceilings and weakened walls.
- Gutter damage. Ice dams are notorious for causing gutters to rip right off the house. Even if they manage to stay in place, gutters often get warped and bent out of shape from supporting ice dams all winter.
- Roof damage. Roofing companies say as ice backs up under the shingles, they can get damaged or even torn off. Ice dam removal on the roof is critical before the resulting water exposure affects the system’s structural integrity.
The Dangers of Ice Dams
- An ice dam can cause moisture to infiltrate the roof deck through its edges, resulting in moisture damage and delaminated decking, wood root, and mold growth, many of which can happen unnoticed until it’s too late.
- Icicles may cause injuries if they break off while someone happens to be standing underneath.
- The moisture in the attic can cause damage to attic insulation, as most types of insulation tend to form clumps when in contact with water.
How to Prevent Ice Damming
Enhancing the insulation in the attic to prevent ice damming and address ventilation issues. Applying cellulose or expanding foam insulation under the roof deck can help slow down thermal transfer through the roof and stop the snow on the rooftop from melting. Contact us today. We will come out and conduct an energy audit and you will see exactly where the energy is being lost and together, come up with a plan that will allow you to maximize the rebates that are available at the State & Federal level.
Contact Oberg Roofing & Remodeling Inc.!
Our roof replacement contractors have decades of experience in the industry and work one-on-one with each client to ensure overall satisfaction with each task at hand. Call (320) 233-2648 or submit our online form to schedule an appointment or receive a free in-home estimate. We serve homeowners in and around St. Cloud, Waite Park, Sauk Rapids, St. Joseph, Sartell, and St. Augusta, MN.