Expert explains roof ice dams and how to avoid them

Last week’s polar vortex forced millions of Americans to blast the heat in their homes, but without proper insulation, that heat could have gotten trapped in your attic, potentially leaving you with a roof ice dam.

Roof ice dams form when heat in an attic warms the roof, melting any snow directly in contact with the roof's surface. As the snow melts and water runs down the side of the roof, it has the potential to freeze at the roof’s edge, which isn’t affected by trapped heat. Ice dam expert and Ice Dam Guys owner Joe Palumbo knows it takes as little of 6 inches of snow to build up and develop a large ice dam.

"As more snow melts, the ice dam develops on the roof's overhang. Eventually, the ice builds up enough to constrict the natural flow of water off the roof and creates a backup. This water can then seep under the roof's shingles," said Palumbo.

As water flows into the house, you will most commonly see water and insulation damage. Quickly, mold and mildew can develop, and floors and ceilings could be left in need of repair.

"I spent the last two weeks in Chicago doing around-the-clock service during the polar vortex. I was constantly explaining that despite the chilling temperatures outside people were pumping their furnace inside, resulting in more heat sneaking into the attic. The layer of snow directly on the roof was melting instantly from that heat. Ice dams were then able to build up in just 24 hours since once that water got to the overhang sitting in minus 50 degree temperatures, it instantly froze and built up," Palumbo explained.

Early action is required to avoid the hassle and expenses of an ice dam. Without proper preparation, you will notice house damage at the same time all of your neighbors notice theirs, leaving you waiting weeks for removal and repairs.

After a snowstorm hits, it would be beneficial to rake the snow off your roof with an extended shovel or snow rake to eliminate any possible roofing problems.

In order to maintain a cold roof throughout the winter, it is important to take a closer look at potential leaks that could have been overlooked. By locating these leaks, you will be able to stop the direct flow of warm air into the attic.

If you notice ongoing problems with a toasty roof, it may be time to add more insulation to your attic, which means stopping the progression of heat to the top of your home. Another fix may be to add a vent to better circulate the hot air that may sneak into the attic.

If an ice dam does develop on your roof’s edge, it is best to call in the experts to properly steam off the ice. Often when people attempt their own fix, it results in greater damage to the roof and insulation, Palumbo said.

“One in five roofs we steam, we get up there and find a salt-filled article of clothing that has done nothing more than melt a circle into the ice and cause a liquid buildup elsewhere,” Palumbo said. "When people hammer out ice on their shingles, it removes the granules on your shingles, taking years off them."

This week's mild weather during the day and potential subfreezing temperatures throughout the night could lead to a thaw, refreeze cycle for the snow on your roof, slowly building up an ice dam.

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For more safety and preparedness tips, visit AccuWeather.com/Ready.

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