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Ice dams are buildups of ice and snow that develop along the edges of a roof and often form beautiful icicles as the snow melts. While nostalgic, these buildups can spell trouble for your roof and home, which is why they should be avoided. Learn more about this phenomenon and how to prevent it below.

What Causes Ice Dams?

When you have a thick layer of snow on the roof, the layers closest to your home will melt as heat escapes through the attic. As the water moves downward, it can re-freeze when it approaches the eves, which have cold air underneath. As a result, water may become trapped near the edge of the roof, where it can pool, damage shingles, and leak into your home.

How Are They Removed?

roofYou can remove ice dams by cleaning the snow off your roof and giving underlying ice a chance to melt. To do this, use a simple roof rake with a long, extendable handle and a comb that won’t harm shingles. By standing in an area where you won’t be impacted by falling snow, you can gently nudge the snow and ice onto the ground.

How Can You Prevent Them?

Keeping snow levels in check can make it more difficult for ice dams to form, protecting your roof. You can also prevent ice dams by improving the insulation and venting inside your attic. Insulation keeps the heat from escaping, and venting creates a pocket of cold air that keeps ice from melting. Some homeowners also choose to have heat cable installed along the eaves of their home to make it easier for ice and snow to melt properly.

 

If your roof was damaged by ice dams, turn to Forest Park Roofing in Cincinnati, OH. Since 1976, they’ve been providing top-notch roof, gutter, and siding installation and repairs to residents throughout the Tri-State area. Whether you need emergency services or want to transform the look of your home, visit their website or call (513) 851-2879 to learn more about how they can help.

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