Winter has arrived in areas of the nation that regularly see subzero temperatures and significant snowfall. As a result, specific precautions must be made to combat nature’s impact on our house and roof. Ice Dams on Des Moines roofing systems are a distinct phenomenon that has been more generally known in the previous decade.
What exactly are ice dams? Ice dams are formed when ice accumulates on the roof, causing water to back up into the structure due to its inability to flow properly.
Action Roofing is delighted to have assisted homeowners with their ice dam difficulties throughout the years. We have been able to help our clients with roof damage prevention, removal, and repair. But, for those of you with whom we have yet to work, we would want to enlighten you on ice dam management.
Today’s blog article will discuss what ice dams are and why they occur, how to estimate your risk for ice dams, and the several preventative options available.
Ice dams may be rather costly! Not just for the eradication, but also for the potential damage and the expense of updating to prevent them from occurring again. The greatest solution to your ice dam problems is preventive. Being proactive not only saves money on potential ice dams, but also on energy costs and insurance premiums.
What Factors Contribute to the Formation of an Ice Dam?
Ice dams form when snow on your roof melts as a result of heat loss into the attic. Inadequate insulation, penetrating ports such as light fittings that enable warm air to enter, uninsulated vents that leak heat, and insufficient attic ventilation to the outdoors can all contribute to heat loss. Once the snow melts, it flows down the roof to the edge, where it freezes again when it comes into contact with a colder surface area, such as the soffit overhang. This process can continue, accumulating ice until it creates an ice dam and backs up behind your shingles, allowing water to pour into your home.
Newer house owners face fewer risks than those of us who live in older homes built before these standards were adopted. Each of these rules is designed to keep the attic temperature consistent with the outside temperature. The benefit of keeping your attic chilly is that you lessen your chance of developing ice dams, cut your energy expenses, and most significantly, keep your house warmer!
Contact the Des Moines Roofing Professionals
Action Roofing takes pride in not just identifying properties at danger of ice dam problems, but also in determining the best course of action to fully resolve the concerns. In a subsequent blog, we will discuss ice dam clearance. From hiring a professional Des Moines roofing business to doing it yourself, there are a variety of techniques to eliminate them. Keep an eye out!