Protect yourself from potentially damaging ice dams this winter.
If you live in an area that experiences freezing conditions in the winter, then your home is at risk for snow and ice damage. One of the most serious risks your home faces this season is the threat of an ice dam forming on your home’s roof. But what exactly is an ice dam and what can you do to prevent one from forming? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is an ice dam?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms on the edges of your roof, preventing melted snow or ice from draining off. Ice dams can cause water to accumulate on your home’s roof, increasing your chances of sustaining water damage.
How are ice dams formed?
Ice dams form when outside temperatures rise above 32° F, causing snow on your roof to melt. As the water flows towards the bottom of your roof and out of direct sunlight, temperatures can once again drop below freezing, causing the melted snow to re-freeze as sheets of ice at the edges of your roof.
How can I prevent ice dams?
There are some steps you can take to prevent ice dams from forming and causing damage to your home. For instance, you can be proactive by routinely removing the snow that has accumulated on your roof. You should also stay vigilant and routinely check your roof to ensure that ice damns haven’t formed. If they have, be sure to knock them down before water can accumulate and cause damage. If you want a more permanent solution to ice dams, speak to a contractor and have heating cables installed across your roof or ice shields installed along its edges.
This is what you need to know about ice dams and their prevention. Want another way to protect your home this winter? Make sure you have the proper homeowners insurance protections in place. For assistance with all your home’s coverage needs, contact the team at Scautub Agency in Scotia, New York. We are ready to get you the coverage that you need today.