An ice dam is the buildup of ice within the eves of a slopped roof. This occurs when snow melts under a snow pack and then gradually reaches the eve and refreezes. As the water melts it can potentially backup behind the dam and leak into your home. This can cause damage to your home’s insulation, walls, ceilings and more.

Helpful Tips To Prevent A Leaking Roof This Winter

Act Fast – If you can determine that an ice dam has already formed on your roof you must take immediate action by controlling the heat loss from your home. If possible the first course of action will be to remove all of the snow from the roof. This will eliminate the chance of the snow melting and forming a dam on the eaves of your home.
Moving the snow as soon as you see that it has accumulated is one of the preventative measures you can take to avoid this issue altogether.

Evaluate the Snow Load – Your roof should have been designed to be able to carry the expected snow load for your area. Take a look at your roof to see if there are any dips or parts that are caving in. If you see any sign of structural damage do not go into the home and call your local roofer immediately.

Maintain Roof Ventilation – One of the biggest causes of ice dams is heat loss through the ceiling. As the heat in your home rises it may ultimately warm the roof allowing the lower layers of snow to melt. It’s important to make sure your ceiling is airtight so that warm air won’t escape from your home and melt the snow.

Check Your Attic Insulation – Be sure your attics insulation is to code and suffice. Fiberglass is one of the best materials you can use for attic insulation but there are other options available.

A Reliable Roofing Company In NJ

If ice. dams are a recurring issue on your roof it may be worth hiring a professional roofing company to help detect and correct the issues. If you need assistance with your roof maintenance or are experiencing any signs roof damage give your local roofing contractor a call to discuss your options. For more information about roofing inspections, repairs or replacement contact JVW Contracting online or at (908)601-3733.