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During the winter, warm air from the inside of the home rises to the cold roof, where it melts the snow. The water runs and refreezes around the eaves, resulting in an ice dam. When large enough, ice dams can exert additional pressure on your roofing, and water can back up under the shingles and leak into the home, causing damage. Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage from ice dams, but there are easy ways to get rid of them permanently.

How to Get Rid of Ice Dams

1. Add Insulation

homeowners insuranceAn insulated home is protected against temperature extremes and will better contain warm air, which will keep water from refreezing at the eaves. Check that your home has sufficient insulation. Feel the walls, ceiling, and floor to gauge how cold they are. Also, take note of drafts, check your utility bills for skyrocketing heating costs, and look in the attic for water damage. If any of these signs are present, you’ll need to add insulation to your home.

2. Improve Ventilation

Increased ventilation will keep cold air circulating around the roof and encourage water runoff. Ridge and soffit vents need to be clean, clear, and in excellent condition, with a minimum of one square foot of opening for every 300 square feet of attic flooring. Installing baffles along the eaves will further help airflow. A roofing professional can tackle these tasks for you, and if ice dams have already caused damage, your homeowners insurance may pay some of the costs.

3. Rake the Roof

For a quick fix, use a roof rake to remove snow from the roof. But safety should be a priority here. Never climb on the roof to rake, and don't use a ladder. Stand firmly on the ground, lift the rake overhead, and carefully pull it down over the shingles and eaves to scrape off snow, water, and ice.

4. String Heat Cables Along the Eaves

Heat cables eliminate ice dams and prevent them from returning. String them along the roof's edge in a zigzag pattern and thread them through the downspouts. This helps balance out the temperature with the warm air coming from the inside.

 

If you've experienced ice dam damage, consult your homeowners insurance policy to see if repairs are covered. When you're in the market for new insurance coverage or want a review of your current policy, contact the K.L. Smith Agency in Willimantic, CT. Since 1956, they’ve been insuring customers throughout the area. They offer home, auto, business, and life insurance plans. Call (860) 423-9294 or visit them online to request a homeowners insurance quote.

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