As summer fades, winter will be here before you know it. With snow and freezing temperatures just a few short months away, it’s important to start thinking about preparing your home exterior. Nothing damages a home like ice, and during winter, ice dams can form quickly and put your roofing, siding, and gutters at risk for damage. Before you schedule an ice dam removal appointment, you should understand what these hazards are. Here are a few aspects every homeowner needs to know about ice dams.

What to Know About Ice Dams & Your Home Exterior

What Are Ice Dams?

Ice dams are a buildup of frozen water that collects on the edge of roofs and in the gutters. This ice buildup prevents snow from melting and running off of the roof to the drainage area on your property. As new snow melts and runs towards the edge of the roof, the water re-freezes, making the dam bigger and perpetuating the drainage problem.

How Much Ice Does It Take to Cause Problems?

Ice dams can form overnight, and any amount of ice that blocks drainage is a major problem for the home exterior and the roof itself. When water can’t drain off the roof, it soaks into the roofing materials and siding of the house. This eventually leads to an increase in leaks and water damage both in the attic and inside the walls of the house.

Can Ice Dams Be Removed?

Ice dam removal should always be handled by an experienced home exterior contractor. They’ll climb up on the roof, inspect the dam, and carefully remove the buildup with steam. This allows the ice to melt without damaging the roofing materials. Once the ice is gone, they’ll further inspect the roof for signs of leaks or water damage and make all necessary repairs to keep the house safe.

Stay on top of ice dams this winter, and let the experienced home exterior contractors at Highmark Exteriors in Savage, MN, keep your roof clean and clear. Their dedicated team is certified to help you with everything from roof repairs to installing new windows. Learn more about their services online and see the difference that a customer-driven company can make in keeping your home in excellent condition. Call (952) 882-8904 today to schedule a free estimate.