The cold has finally come upon us. The snow is surely soon to follow which means we are in the time of year that we have to start looking for ice dams on our roofs. Ice dams are thick ridges of solid ice that build up on the bottoms of the roof (the eaves). These can cause huge problems including damage to gutters, loosen shingles, and can cause water to back up and come into your home.

There is a complex interaction of variables that allow ice dams to form. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent ice dams on your home.

1) Ensure that the attic is ventilate property. This will keep the underside of the roof to keep a cool temperature, preventing any ice/snow melting on the outside.

2) Cap that hatch. Seal any attic hatches to prevent the warm air from entering the attic.

3) Exhaust to the outside. Ensure that all the ducts connected to the kitchen, bathroom, and dryer vents lead outdoors through the walls or roof, but never through the soffit.

4) Add insulation. More insulation on the attic floor keeps the heat where it belongs, not in the attic.

These are just a few ways that you can prevent ice dams on your roof.

Millersberg Construction hopes that you never have to face the complications from ice dams. However, we have the experience and knowledge to make any required repairs from ice dams.