You may be asking: what do icicles have to do with ice dams? Well, they’re actually a sign that you might be dealing with an ice dam. Ice dams are a major problem for homeowners, as they can lead to expensive repairs. You may not see the damage from the ground, but if you notice icicles, there is probably an issue with your roof, and you should call a professional ASAP.
Here at JM Roofing and Siding, we have an entire breakdown of what ice dams are, how icicles can clearly indicate this issue, and how we can help.
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams are a common problem for many homeowners. When ice and snow on the roof melt, they often run down to meet warm air that is leaking into your home through unsealed gaps in the roof. This creates pools of water that can cause damage or ruin items inside your house.
Can Icicles Be a Sign of Ice Dams?
Icicles may be a clue of where you have an ice dam on your roof because it shows where there is melting occurring and pooling water. Icicles grow in this cold environment, which is why they’re such an obvious indicator that there’s a problem with the temperature balance in your house. They start as tiny crystals and gradually get bigger, forming long spikes as we see on roofs all around our counties during the winter months.
Common Ice Dam Issues
As more snow falls, the weight pushes down against the frozen ice dam, causing it to push water up under shingles, leading to rot and mold problems. So if you’re still seeing icicles in your yard this winter, there’s no need to panic — just make sure that you’re keeping an eye on the area and calling a professional for help if you notice any signs of damage.
How To Prevent Ice Dams
With all the snow and freezing temperatures we’ve been getting lately, it’s best to take precautionary measures to stop ice dams from forming in the first place. Three of the most common ways to do this are:
- Updating your home’s insulation
- Removing snow from your roof
- Installing gutter helmets
In general, the most important thing is to keep your whole roof at the same temperature. When roofs are poorly insulated, warm air can become trapped and create ice dams. Luckily, our team is ready to help.
Roofing Experts of Norwalk
Our team of experienced and professional roofing contractors looks forward to serving Connecticut residents’ roofing 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 as soon as possible.