From heavy precipitation to powerful winds, winter wrecks havoc on roofing. One of the primary concerns that many homeowners face during the season is ice dams. While icicles hanging from the roof are picturesque, they indicate a potentially damaging moisture buildup. Here's what you need to know about this problem. 

What Are Ice Dams?

An accumulation of snow is fairly common during winter. As the roof heats up, the precipitation melts and runs down into the gutter. Yet, the eaves around the roof are heated by the interior of the home, so the water refreezes creating a blockage of ice. Unfortunately, that doesn't stop the accumulation behind the dam from melting, forcing the water to pool up and escape underneath the shingles. 

How They Impact Roofing

The weight of ice and pooling water is substantial, putting the home at risk of warped decking and broken or fallen gutters. The force of the backed-up water also loosens shingles, requiring immediate roof repairs. Once the water penetrates the sheathing, it easily moves into the home to cause water damage to both cosmetic and structural elements. 

How to Prevent Them

To avoid the impact of roofing ice dams, you need to prevent the issue from occurring altogether. Achieving this feat requires keeping the entire roof the same temperature by ensuring proper ventilation in the attic and adding additional insulation. These steps help keep heated air from warming up the surface, which inhibits precipitation melt. When such steps are impossible or unsuccessful, install heated cabling along the edge of the roof to prevent refreezing. 

When roofing issues arise, homeowners across Hastings, NE, turn to the trusted professionals at Maendele Construction, LLC. For over a decade, the local roofing contractor has provided honest, dependable, and affordable work to Adams County residents. From installation to repairs, the team is committed to excellence. Browse their full list of services online, and request an estimate today at (402) 984-3906.