Ice dam damage occurs when ice builds up along the edges of a roof and prevents melting snow from properly draining off. Significant ice dam roof damage can occur when the trapped water seeps under shingles and into the structure of the home or small business—knowing what to do and when can make a big difference. Above all, when ice dams form, taking action can limit the damage is important.
How Ice Dams Form
Ice dams form when warm air inside a home escapes into the attic and melts snow on the roof. This melted water flows down the roof and freezes at the edge, where it’s colder. As more water freezes, the ice dam grows, blocking the water flow. This trapped water can back up under the shingles and seep into the roof, causing damage to the roof structure, insulation, and even the house’s interior.
Can ice dams damage your roof?
Ice dams can cause significant damage to a house or building when water is trapped under the shingles and begins to seep into the roof structure. This trapped water can saturate the insulation, rot the wood framing, and even cause damage to the interior of the house, leading to mold growth, water stains, and structural instability. The weight of the ice dam itself can also stress the roof, potentially causing it to sag or collapse. In severe cases, ice dam roof damage can lead to costly repairs, including roof replacement, insulation replacement, and structural repairs.
When should I worry about ice dams?
A homeowner or business owner should worry about ice dams when they notice signs of water damage on the roof or in the attic, such as water stains, peeling paint, or a musty smell. In addition to the formation of thick ridges of ice building up along the roof’s edge during cold spells, other warning signs include icicles hanging from the eaves and water dripping from the roofline. If you experience any of these signs in Maine or New Hampshire, it’s important to inspect your attic to prevent further damage.
Do ice dams always cause damage?
Just because an ice dam is present does not guarantee that damage will occur. The potential for damage depends on various factors, such as the size and persistence of the ice dam, the amount of snow and ice on it, the amount of water trapped behind it, the roof’s condition, and the home’s insulation and ventilation. Small or short-lived ice dams might not cause immediate harm, but large or persistent ones can lead to water seeping under shingles and into the roof structure. Overall, while ice dams are not always a cause for concern, they should be monitored and addressed to prevent potential problems.
How do you fix ice damage on your roof?
Resolving ice dam damage may be a challenging fix for homeowners or business owners, but there are a number of short-term steps to improve the situation if they notice ice dams forming. First, remove snow from the roof using a roof rake or broom to prevent further accumulation. Be cautious not to damage your roofing materials. On a warm day, you can use a hose to create a drainage channel through the ice dam. This allows water to drain off and can help manage any backed-up water. If there is a substantial amount of ice, consider hiring professionals to steam it off to avoid physical damage to shingles. Once the roof is clear, inspect for damage, such as loose or missing shingles, water stains, or leaks inside the home. If the damage is extensive, consulting a professional may be the best course of action to mitigate the damage. The best way to ‘fix’ ice dam damage is to prevent it with a well-insulated and ventilated attic that can maintain a consistent roof temperature. This minimizes snowmelt and the risk of ice dams forming.
Is damage from ice dams covered by insurance?
Homeowners insurance often covers Damage from ice dams, depending on the policy and circumstances. Most standard policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, like those caused by ice dams, and related damage to the roof, ceilings, walls, and insulation. However, coverage typically excludes damage resulting from neglect or lack of maintenance, such as failing to address poor attic insulation or ventilation that contributed to the problem. Homeowners need to review their policy details and consult their insurance provider to confirm coverage and understand any exclusions.
Contact the Experts at Octagon Cleaning & Restoration
If you’re experiencing ice dam formations on your roof that cause water to enter your home or business, call the water mitigation experts at Octagon Cleaning & Restoration right away. We will clean up the water damage and any resulting mold issues. We offer free estimates and will work with you and your insurance company to restore your property to its pre-damaged.Â
For more information, contact us by email or reach our team at (207) 893-0002 in Maine or, in New Hampshire at (603) 239-2100.
