Getting Rid Of Ice Dams (Prevention and Fast Fixes)
Ice dams are formed when warm air rises and melts the snow on a roof but can’t drain properly, creating ice sheets that back up underneath the overhang. If not dealt with, it can lead to leaks inside around door frames or windows which is why prevention is key if you want to get rid of ice dams. If you don’t think it is a good idea to clean your roof yourself, then hiring a company that is trustworthy may be the next best option.
Is ice damming a problem for your home? If so, you’re not alone. Ice dams are a common problem that many homeowners have to deal with during the winter months, and dealing with them can be difficult if they catch you off guard. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to prevent ice damming from happening in the first place as well as some fast fixes for when it does happen. Gutter medics can help you get rid of ice dams on your roof. Call our nearest service area in your home.
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Timely Disaster Prevention
Roof
There can be several unpleasant side effects resulting from ice dams along the eave and in the gutter. Insufficient insulation causes snow on the roof to melt, or intense sunlight followed by freezing nights creates ice dams. By installing slippery metal on the roof, as well as by properly insulating and cleaning the roof, you can prevent this.
Chimney
If you find water accumulating in cracks in the mortar, follow that with a careful inspection. A chimney becomes unstable as a result.
Furnace
A functioning furnace is incredibly important during the winter. It cannot be more crucial than at this time of year. Ensure everything from oil levels to motor belts, filters, and exhaust is in great shape.
Outdoor Safety
Maintain a supply of rock sand on your driveway and path walks to ensure safe travel.
Seal Air Leaks
Caulk all the air leaks that lead to a loss of valuable heat by buying weatherstrips and installing them.
Clean Your Windows
It is advisable to carry out a thorough cleaning on any windows that get the most direct sunlight. This reduces the furnace’s workload.
Tighten Everything
Winter is the best season for repairing smaller issues, be it doorknobs, appliance handles, floorboards, or baseboard trims. Look at anything that isn’t too tight – doorknobs, appliance handles, floorboards, or baseboard trims.
Insulation
You should wrap insulation around pipes in order to prevent loss of heat and pipes breaking. Places that are exposed require extra attention.
Check Your Air Filters
Filters clogged with debris restrict or completely prevent air circulation. Winter is a particularly important time to be aware of this.
Gutters And Downspouts
You may want to invest in a gutter screen, which prevents debris from falling into the gutter.
Test GFCI outlets
All wet areas in your home (bathrooms, kitchen) should have these types of outlets. They provide shock protection. Once a month, these must be tripped and reset. In any case, have an electrician replace the outlet.
Have ice dams on your roof? Don’t worry, Gutter Medics will assist you. Contact Us Today! (630) 922-3131
What To Consider If Your Roof Has Ice Dams
1. Clear the snow from the top of the ice dam and the eaves of your roof. Winter is a dangerous time to use ladders. Be careful not to damage the shingles and other roofing materials and stay away from power lines when using a roof rake or other similar tool. By insulating the roof, a thick layer of snow can keep the roof temperature warmer than the ambient air temperature. It may be possible for the roof to melt snow if it is above freezing, even in subzero temperatures.
2. Make the ice removal process easier by hiring a professional company. There is a substantial cost associated with eaves, which goes over $4-$9 per foot, and can be significantly greater depending on your roof height and other factors. When you have already had water enter your home, this method may be your only option.
3. A fan can help you prevent the roof from getting hot enough to melt the snow if it is possible to bring outside air into the attic.
In order to stop your attic from heating up, you need to block the air from entering your living space. In addition, if there is not enough attic space, more insulation should also be added to the attic above the ceiling and on the ceiling where there is no attic space. Your heating bills should also be reduced as a result.
The freezing of roofs or installing heating cables are more proactive methods for preventing ice dams from forming on some houses.
In most new homes, the natural ventilation path begins under the eaves below the soffit, then goes through the roof peaks to let the attic air out. A balanced system maintains a constant temperature throughout the roof, preventing the formation of ice dams. By adding a vent or insulating your roof where vents are not an option, a remodeling professional can minimize the potential for ice dams to form.
Get more timely disaster prevention information on our blog, and find out how to get rid of ice dams with the best practices for preventing them. We also have a list of fast fixes so you can combat any problems that might arise from this weather condition! If your roof has ice dams, be sure to check it for leaks while we wait for warmer temperatures. With these tips in mind, hopefully, you’ll never have to worry about getting an ice dam again!
Have ice dams on your roof? Gutter Medics will assist you. Contact Us Today! (630) 922-3131