01/29/2026
ICE DAM PREVENTION TIPS
Icicles hanging from a roof look dazzling, but they can be a sign of Ice Dams. Ice Dams usually form after a heavy snowfall followed by freezing temps. HERE'S WHAT HAPPENS:
Warm air in your home reaches the attic & heats the underside of the roof, & snow & ice on it melt. The melted water drains down the roof UNTIL it reaches the COLD OVERHANG. The overhang is colder than the roof, as it hangs beyond the attic. The ice buildup here, prevents melted water from running off the roof. This can cause water to seep under shingles, into the attic, ceiling, & walls.
ICE DAMS CAN CAUSE SEVERE DAMAGE. IF UNTREATED THEY CAN
• Ruin attic insulation
• Loosen shingles
• Tear off gutters
• Stain ceilings and walls
• Cause paint to peel
• Ruin sheetrock
• Warp floors
• Lead to mold and mildew
TO PREVENT ICE DAMS FROM FORMING
• Clear gutters & Make sure your downspouts are functioning
• Insulate the attic. so warm air from below doesn’t reach the attic.
• Ensure proper ventilation. Good air flow helps keep the temp cold & prevents snow on the roof from melting.
Some tasks discussed are dangerous, so when in doubt, hire a Pro.
SAFETY TIPS TO FOLLOW IF AN ICE DAM FORMS
• Don’t go on the roof, it is slippery
• Don’t “chip” at ice from below. You could be injured falling ice or damage the shingles.
• To remove snow from roof, use long-handled broom or roof rake.
• To remove ice from roof, fill a old pair of nylon stockings with calcium chloride ice melt and lay them on top of the ice. It should melt the ice, creating a route for water to flow off the roof.
For a Home, Auto, or Business Insurance Quote- Call/Text 781-771-8578 or email [email protected]