How to Spot and Repair Roof Ice Dam Damage

Now that the snowy season has begun, there is a lot of excitement around the state. However, a common problem that comes with this season is the accumulation of ice dams on roofs. Ice dams can affect your roof’s existing condition and also bring added weight to your roof. 

In Pennsylvania, ice dams are a common thing that you can easily spot on every roof in winter. At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are a trusted team of contractors committed to providing professional roof repairs. So, if you are dealing with ice dam-related problems, we are here to help you!  

In this article, we will discuss how to spot and repair roof ice dam damage. This will help you take a protective approach and prevent expensive repairs.

What Is an Ice Dam and How Does It Form?

An ice dam develops on the surface of the roof through a specific sequence of winter weather events. 

👉 The process begins when heat rises from your living space into the attic, warming the underside above freezing.

👉 This warmth causes snow on the peak of the roof to melt, causing water to flow down to the colder eaves. 

👉 Since the eaves remain below freezing, the water refreezes when it reaches this point. As the cycle continues day after day, the ice dam grows increasingly larger, creating a thick barrier that prevents proper drainage and threatens your roof's structural integrity.

👉 It’s particularly common for ice dams to form on older homes where there might not be as much quality insulation. However, even newer homes can experience this problem if proper preventive measures aren't in place. 

👉 The varying temperatures across your roof create perfect conditions for ice dam formation, especially during periods of heavy snowfall followed by freezing temperatures.

How Do You Spot The Signs Of Ice Damage on A Roof?

When an ice dam forms, it immediately begins to pose serious risks to your home's structure. 

👉 The sheer weight of the ice puts stress on your gutters and roofing materials, often leading to structural damage. Water that backs up behind the ice dams can also work its way under shingles and penetrate below roofing layers. 

👉 Over time, this persistent ice accumulation may even cause the gutters to pull away from the fascia board, requiring expensive repairs.

👉 The long-term implications of ice dams extend far beyond the immediate visible damage. As moisture continues to penetrate your attic space, the effectiveness of your insulation gradually deteriorates.

👉 This degradation creates a vicious cycle, as reduced insulation efficiency leads to more heat loss and, consequently, more ice dams. The presence of moisture in your attic also creates perfect conditions for wood rot to occur along the roof deck, beams, and rafters.

👉 Perhaps most concerningly, this trapped moisture often leads to harmful mildew and mold growth, which can affect your home's structure and your family's health.

How To Detect The Warning Signs Of Ice Dam Damage

Early detection of roof ice dam damage is very important in order to prevent other expensive repairs and replacements. Regularly inspect your roof's exterior throughout the winter for signs of ice dam formation.

👉 The most obvious indicator is the presence of large icicles hanging from your gutters or roof edges. While these might create a picturesque winter scene, they actually signal that conditions are right for ice dam formation. 

👉 You might also notice irregular ice patterns on your roof's surface or water stains on exterior walls, particularly near the eaves.

👉 Peeling or bubbling paint might be visible around windows or doors.

👉 Unusual cold drafts or sudden increases in heating costs might also indicate that your attic's insulation has been compromised by ice dam-related moisture.

How Do You Remove Ice Dams From The Roof?

Safety must be your first priority when trying to eliminate ice dams. Never try to remove ice dams by chipping or breaking the ice. This damages roofing materials and creates even more problems.

👉 Start by carefully removing any icicles hanging from your roof's edge. This is important, not just for preventing injury to people walking below but also to protect your gutters and roof from the extra weight.

👉 Professional contractors use special steam equipment to create channels through the ice, allowing trapped water to drain properly. This method effectively reduces the immediate threat while reducing the risk of roof damage.

👉 If you decide to do it yourself, be very careful. Using warm water can work, but only if you're sure water isn't already leaking into your home.

👉 A gentler approach is using calcium chloride to melt the ice. Just sprinkle it along the ice dam, and it will help break down the ice naturally. 

👉 Stay away from regular rock salt, as it might be cheaper, but it can harm your roofing materials.

These steps can help you deal with ice dams, but remember that working on a roof can be dangerous, especially in winter. When in doubt, it's better to call a professional who can safely handle the job.

How Do You Repair Roof Damage Caused by Ice Dams?

Once you’ve successfully removed ice dams from your roof, it’s time for a thorough inspection. This is important to determine whether the extra weight of the ice dams is affecting your roof. 

It is best to schedule a roof inspection with reputable roofers in your area. This is a risky job that requires safety measures and experience. If you are looking forward to professional roof inspections in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, we will do them for free! 

How Do You Prevent Ice Dams On The Roof?

As we always say, preventing the damage in the first place is always better than dealing with the aftermath. 

👉 Eliminating ice dams permanently requires a multi-level approach focused on prevention.

👉 Professional contractors should perform a thorough attic inspection to identify and seal air leaks that allow warm air to escape into the attic space. 

👉 This might include sealing around light fixtures, plumbing vents, and other penetrations in your ceiling.

👉 Upgrading attic insulation to meet current energy standards often provides the most effective long-term solution for preventing ice dams.

👉 Regular maintenance again plays a very important role in preventing ice dam formation. Keep your gutters clean and properly aligned to ensure proper drainage when snow melts. 

👉 Trim overhanging tree branches that might prevent snow from sliding off your roof. 

👉 Schedule an annual roof inspection to identify and address potential problem areas instantly before they contribute to ice dam formation.

Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection In Pennsylvania Today

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local roofing company in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania.

We have been serving our state with top-quality roofing services for many years, using only industry-certified practices and high-quality materials to ensure your roof stays healthy and protects your property effectively. 

From minor repairs to emergency roof replacement, we can do it all for you. So, for a no-pressure discussion with our professionals or to schedule a free roof inspection, feel free to give us a call at (412) 353-5660.