Winter’s beauty can quickly turn into a nightmare for various property owners when ice dams form. These ice ridges along a roof edge can cause serious damage to someone’s home and/or business. This can lead to affecting the contents in the property. Let’s take a look at what ice dams are and how they affect someone’s property.
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice Dams form when water from melting snow runs down the surface of a roof and forms at the edge, preventing the additional melting snow from draining off. This trapped water can then back up under the roof shingles, causing it to leak into your property, or refreeze, causing the ice to lift the shingles off of the roof, causing another way for water to leak into the property.
How To Identify Ice Dams
Several signs could indicate the presence of an ice dam. Look for these identifying factors:
- Water or ice inside or around window frames
- Visible water or ice on the siding of the property
- Icicles or ice build-up along the roof’s edge or behind gutters
- Ice in exterior vents along the roof
The Effects of Ice Dams
The consequences of not addressing ice dams can be significant, property owners could face the following:
- Roof Damage – As previously stated, water trapped under shingles can cause them to buckle, crack, and/or detach.
- Interior Leaks – Water leaking from the roof due to missing/damaged shingles can cause water to leak inside an attic, walls, ceilings, and insulations.
- Insulation Damage – Wet insulation loses its purpose which can cause higher energy bills and potential mold growth.
- Mold & Mildew Growth – The damp environment created by leaks is ideal for mold and mildew growth, which can pose health risks and further damage to contents and the structure.
- Damage Gutters – The weight of the ice can damage gutters and downspouts, causing them to sag, detach, and/or collapse.
How To Prevent Them
Prevention is key to avoiding the costly damage associated with ice dams. Some effective actions one can take to prevent ice dams is:
- Improve Insulation – Adequate attic insulation is crucial for preventing heat from escaping and warming the roof. Seal air leaks around vents, chimneys, and other openings.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation – Proper ventilation, especially in the attic, will help regulate the roof temperature and prevent warm air from being trapped.
- Remove Snow From Roof – Regularly removing snow from the roof can prevent ice dams from forming.
In the case that water and or mold forms within a property, CRS is prepared to handle the aftermath, offering comprehensive content stabilization and restoration services. Our experienced team utilizes specialized techniques and equipment to mitigate water damage, thoroughly dry affected areas, and remediate mold growth, preventing further deterioration of your valuable belongings.
From document drying and furniture restoration to electronics cleaning and mold remediation, we work diligently to restore your contents to their pre-loss condition, minimizing disruption and helping you recover from the damaging effects of ice dams. Trust CRS to provide the expertise and care needed to restore your property and its contents, ensuring a healthy and safe environment once again.
Ice dams are a serious threat to homes and businesses in snowy climates. By understanding how they form and taking preventative measures, property owners can protect their property from costly damage and ensure a warm and dry winter. To learn more about how CRS can help in a disaster event, head to our services page for more information.
