With Maine winter fast approaching, even homeowners with the best roofs need to winterize in preparation for the snowy season. Winters always bring bothersome conditions, like ice dams, that take a toll on buildings.
The tell-tale signs of a roof with ice dams are icicles hanging from the gutters. These somewhat lovely natural occurrences give you a better understanding of what’s going on under all that snow. Our experts at The Roof Doctors are here to help you handle all kinds of roof challenges this winter season.
What is an Ice Dam?
Ice dams are a frustrating and common problem for many homeowners. It is a mound of ice formation on the edge of your roof that stops water from draining off. The water gets trapped on your roof, then leaks inside your home causing damage to the ceilings, walls, and other interior areas.
Causes of Ice Dams
Ice dams start to form when your roof heats up as the outside temperatures drop. The snow on your roof melts and then refreezes, creating an ice ridge on the edge of the roof. Roofs with inconsistent surfaces, such as skylights or inset lights, also contribute to this issue as they collect more debris.
Effects of Ice Dams on Your Home and Health
Ice dams have serious effects on your roof and the inside of your home. They destroy shingles, gutters, and their weight can even cause collapsing of your roof’s foundation. Water with nowhere else to go makes its way through cracks and openings in your roof and into your home. These leaks can not only negatively affect your home, but also your family’s health. Moisture in your home causes mildew and mold that can lead to respiratory problems for you or your family.
Roof Shoveling
You might be tempted to jump up on your roof with a shovel and take care of this yourself. Tackling ice dams without the assistance of a professional with the right equipment is not only a dangerous task, but it can damage your roof even further. So before you decide to confront your slippery and fragile roof, let us come take care of your ice dams safely and properly!
Preventing Ice Dams
We can help you take the necessary steps to prevent ice dams from harming your home. Without taking active precautions and winterizing your roof, water damage is likely to occur. Getting heat cables installed on your roof is also a great way to prevent freezing by melting the ice as it starts to form.
Your gutters or roof can get clogged in the corners with leaves and debris encouraging ice formations. We highly encourage getting your gutters cleaned regularly, removing any potentially hazardous debris build-up on your roof in areas that could lead to leaks.
Don’t wait until the damage is done to protect your home and family. Schedule your roof check today! Call or text the Roof Doctors at (207) 772-2719, serving Greater Portland for 25 winters for all your winterizing needs. We can help you keep your home warm, dry, and safe all winter long!
