Ice dams can cause a lot of damage to your home in the winter, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips that will help you keep your home safe from ice dams. Follow these tips and you can rest assured that your winter will be ice dam-free!
What are ice dams and how do they form?
Ice dams form when snow accumulates on the roof and melts due to heat from the attic. The melted water runs down the roof, hits a cold spot where it quickly refreezes, forming an ice dam. This ice dam can cause water to back up and eventually leak into your home, potentially leading to costly damage.
Ice dam prevention
Preventing ice dams is possible if you take the right steps. Here are some tips:
Clean off your roof
Clearing away snow and ice accumulation on your roof can help prevent ice dams from forming. This should be done with a plastic or metal shovel (not a sharp-edged one) so that you don’t damage your roof shingles. Take care to do this properly and always follow all safety precautions. If you are uncomfortable on a ladder or your roof, then hire a professional to do it for you.
Keep gutters clean
Gutters that are clogged with debris can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dam formation. Make sure your gutters are clean so that the melted snow has a clear path to run off your roof.
Attic insulation
Making sure that your attic is properly insulated is one of the best ways to prevent ice dams from forming. This should be done by adding adequate insulation and sealing any air leaks around windows, doors and other areas where cold air can enter the attic space.
By following these tips you should be able to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof and causing damage to your home. If you have any questions or need help with insulation or other winterizing efforts, contact a professional, like JW Home Improvement, for advice. Taking steps now will ensure that you and your home stay safe this winter season!
What can ice dam damage do?
Ice dams can cause a multitude of problems. Water from an ice dam can seep into your walls and ceilings, causing mold, mildew, and structural damage to your home. If the water infiltrates electrical wiring or outlets, it could lead to shock or fire hazards. Ice dams can also ruin shingles and gutters. In extreme cases, an ice dam can even cause part of your roof to collapse! So it’s important that you do everything possible to prevent them from forming in the first place.
Additional tips to keep your home warm and dry this winter
There are many preventative measures you can take to keep your home warm and dry this winter, here are a few of them:
- Have your heating system inspected and serviced – An annual service is recommended to ensure that it is working properly and efficiently.
- Check weatherstripping around windows and doors – Make sure that the weatherstripping is in good condition to prevent cold air from entering your home.
- Make sure vents and ducts are not blocked – Make sure that all vents and ducts are free of debris so that air can flow freely.
- Seal cracks and gaps – Use caulk to seal any cracks or gaps you may find around your home, this will help keep drafts out.
- Install a programmable thermostat – Installing a programmable thermostat can help reduce energy costs as it helps regulate the temperature in your home.
By taking the necessary steps to winterize your home, you can rest assured that it will stay warm and dry all season long!
Book Gutter and Exterior Projects Now Before Spring Arrives
JW Home Improvement is the leading handyman and remodeling company in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. We are available to help with gutter and exterior projects before the spring rush. Book now so that you can be sure your home is in tip-top shape for the upcoming warmer months.
We provide high-quality craftsmanship at competitive prices, and guarantee your satisfaction! Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.
