If you’re a new homeowner or new to Michigan, you may not be familiar with the dreaded ice dam. Read on to learn what this winter-weather issue is, what problems it causes, and how to best prevent and repair ice dam damage to your roof.
What Is an Ice Dam?
A ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roofline, an ice dam stops melting snow from higher up on the roof from draining properly. Of course, pooled water is a roof’s arch enemy, as it can wreak havoc on both the exterior and interior of your home.
Although most ice dams form at the roof’s edge, they can also form:
- Where different rooflines meet
- In valley areas
- Around skylights
- Near vent and pipe openings
- Against chimneys
You’ll probably be able to spot huge ice dams forming at the edge of your roof, but you might miss smaller dams in these other areas. But, large or small, ice dams spell trouble.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Ice dams form when heat (from your attic, the sun, or other source) escapes and melts snow on a roof. When the melted snow runs down the roof, the water drops in temperature as it reaches the cooler soffit area (edge/overhang). The water then refreezes as ice instead of draining into gutters or off the roof.
Any non-uniform areas of temperature are prime spots for ice dams. Poorly insulated attics are a big contributor to the uneven melting of snow.
How Roof Damage From Ice Dams Occurs in Michigan?
Unable to run off, the trapped water is forced back up under the roof’s shingles, causing problems such as:
- Water damage to insulation, ceilings, walls, and floors
- Roof damage to gutters and shingles
- Exterior damage to soffits, fascia, eaves, and siding
- Mold and mildew growth
- Structural damage to beams and rafters
You might be unaware that issues are mounting for two reasons. First, the trapped water hides under a layer of snow on your roof. Second, it takes time for roof leaks from ice dams to actually make themselves evident from inside your home.
How Common Is Damage From Ice Dam Damage in Ann Arbor?
Ice dams are very common in Michigan. Homeowners who live anywhere with extreme temperature fluctuations and snowy winters struggle with this cold weather foe. And plenty of homes in the Ann Arbor area have poorly insulated attics, which compounds the issue and increases the possibility of ice dam formation.
What’s the Best Ice Dam Prevention in Michigan?
Although you can’t guarantee ice dams won’t form on your roof, here are some steps you can take to mitigate the risk:
- Make sure your attic is properly ventilated.
- Clean your roof of debris after the leaves fall.
- Regularly clean your gutters.
- Keep your attic cold in the winter.
- Keep heavy snow loads off your roof as much as possible (you can try using a roof rake).
Taking these preventative measures will reduce the chances of roof leaks from ice dams.
What’s the Best Method for Fixing Ice Dams near Ann Arbor?
Even after taking every precaution, ice dams can still form. That’s when we recommend calling a professional for any ice dam removal near Ann Arbor, MI services you need. A roofing contractor for ice dam repair knows how to properly remove the offending ice without damaging your roof, a process that typically requires a special steam machine.
We don’t recommend trying to hack away at the ice yourself. Not only is this potentially dangerous, but it also could easily damage your roof. If your roof has been damaged by attempted ice dam removal, call roofing professionals who offer residential roofing repair services.
Warning Signs That You Need a Roof Repair or Replacement
If the ice dam sat all winter and quietly caused issues, come springtime, you might see signs that you need roof repair or even roof replacement services.
Here’s what to look out for:
- The ice dam sat for a long time
- Icicles formed
- Ice is in the soffit vents
- There’s ice or mold in the attic
- There are missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- There are interior water stains or leaking
- There are darkened areas on the roof
- There are clogged or damaged gutters
- There is a sagging roof deck
- There are missing roof granules/granules in the gutter water
Contact a roofing contractor near you if you spot any of these warning signs so they can repair your roof before the problems get worse.
All Our Roofing Services
- Asphalt Roof Repair
- Asphalt Roof Replacement
- Attic Ventillation Installation
- Flat roof replacement
- Metal roof repair
Your Local Michigan Roofer for Ice Dam Repair & Prevention
Sit back and enjoy that hot cup of cocoa, cozy blanket, and picturesque snow because PD Home Exteriors is here as your Ann Arbor roofing contractor for ice dam repair and prevention. We’re invested in our local community and perform our work with high standards. Our licensed, certified, and insured crews are ready to roll out this winter and fight this common wintertime foe.
We can help with a range of services, from ensuring your attic is properly insulated to repairing roof damage caused by pooling water. Reach out to us today to schedule your inspection and free estimate. We want to make sure you and your family enjoy a cozy Michigan winter!