The Dangers of Frozen Gutters

Winter brings snow, hot cocoa, and cozy nights by the fire. But, for homeowners, it also brings a hidden danger – frozen gutters. They might not seem like a big deal at first, but the damage they can cause is massive. 

Our JM Roofing team has a breakdown of why frozen gutters are bad news and what you can do to stop them.

The Problem Starts with Ice Dams

When snow accumulates on your roof, the heat escaping from inside your home can melt it. The melted snow then flows into your gutters, where it freezes again. This cycle creates ice dams – thick ridges of ice that block the normal flow of water down your gutters. Over time, these ice dams can grow, trapping even more water. That’s when the real trouble begins.

How Frozen Gutters Damage Your Home

1. Roof Damage: Ice dams can cause water to back up under your shingles. When that water freezes and expands, it can loosen your shingles and create gaps. These gaps allow even more moisture to seep into your roof, which increases the risk of leaks and costly repairs.
2. Wall and Ceiling Problems: Once water finds its way past your roof, it can drip into your walls and ceilings. If left unnoticed, this can lead to ugly stains, peeling paint, and even structural damage. Mold and mildew love damp areas, so frozen gutters could also mean a potential health hazard.
3. Foundation Trouble: If blocked gutters force water to spill over the sides, it can pool around your home’s foundation. Over time, this water can seep into your basement or crawl space, weakening your foundation and increasing the chance of cracks.
4. Weakened Gutters: Gutters aren’t built to hold the weight of heavy ice for long periods. Frozen pieces can bend, sag, or even detach from your home. Replacing your gutters isn’t always convenient, so prevention pays off in the long run.

Stop Ice Damage Before It Starts

The good news? You can prevent frozen gutters with just a little effort. Here’s how:

• Clean Your Gutters Before Winter Hits: Clear out leaves and debris so water can flow freely.
• Install Gutter Guards or Heating Cables: Gutter guards keep debris out while heating cables melt any ice buildup. Both are great options for keeping gutters clear.
• Ensure Proper Insulation and Ventilation: By reducing heat loss from your roof, you can prevent snow from melting and refreezing. Proper attic insulation and ventilation make a huge difference here.
• Break It Up Safely: If ice does form, don’t climb up and chip away at it with tools. That can damage your gutters. Instead, use a roof rake or call a professional for help.

Roofing and Gutter Experts of Norwalk

Our team of experienced and professional roofing contractors looks forward to serving Connecticut residents’ roofing and gutter needs. We can thoroughly examine the roof, identify the underlying problem, and make the needed corrections. Homeowners who notice any preceding concerns are urged to contact us immediately.