Winter Weather Causes Ice Dams

As we endure a particularly tough New England winter, Hunter Insurance wants to make sure that you, your family and your property are fully protected.

The tremendous amounts of snowfall have pummeled neighborhoods and have created a silent danger lurking on the roofs of many homes. You may have noticed the glistening icicles hanging from your gutters, but may be unaware of the significant damage they could cause. The appearance of icicles is typically the first warning sign of possible ice dams.

Ice dams are essentially a wall of ice that forms along the roof of your home, usually near the gutters. As they form, water backs up behind the ice dam and creates a pool of water that can leak into your home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas. With the extensive snowfall totals so far, coupled with freezing temperatures, homes are being hit hard.

The best way to avoid ice dam formation is to make certain your attic is properly ventilated and insulated. Even if the temperatures are freezing outside, poor insulation will cause snow to melt too fast on your roof. When the accumulated snow on your roof starts melting down to the “colder” sections (such as the gutters) it begins to refreeze thus forming an ice dam.

While ice dams can cause home damage, it is important to exercise caution when removing them. Only trained professionals with the proper equipment and roofing experience should be consulted. Never step out onto a snow covered roof, as there is severe risk of personal injury. 

Hacking away at ice dams with a hammer, chisel, or shovel is bad for your roofing—and dangerous for you. And throwing salt on them will do more to harm to your plantings than to the ice.

To help avoid damage, pull off snow with a long-handled aluminum roof rake while you stand safely on the ground. A rake with wheels will instantly change the exterior temperature of your roof without damaging shingles.

At Hunter Insurance, we are committed to helping individuals and families protect what matters most. If you would like additional information on keeping your home safe this winter, please contact us at 769-9500.