Winter is Here! - Tips to Prevent Ice Dams

   Now that we are in the throes of winter here in the northeast, we wanted to offer some tips on preventing ice dams.  Ice dams are caused when ice forms at the roof edges and gutter line, and prevents the natural flow of water off a roof.  They can cause thousands of dollars in damage as the water flows into the house in an irregular pattern, showing up over windows, in ceilings and running down the inside of walls. 

Amica and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety offer these tips:

• Make sure the ceiling is airtight, so warm, moist air doesn’t flow into the attic space.
• Increase ceiling and roof insulation to minimize the amount of heat that rises into the attic.
• Use weather-stripping around entryways to the attic.
• Seal around attic ducts, light fixtures, chimneys and fans to prevent heat from melting snow.
• Make sure the attic is well ventilated so that any warm air is replaced with cold outside air.
• Clean debris from gutters and drains to allow for proper drainage.

One of the best ways we have found to prevent ice dams, is to use a self-adhereing ice and water shield at all roof edges, valleys and other critical roof / wall intersections. Although it adds some cost up front, it is insignificant comparted to the damage and hassle invloved in repairing the results of an ice dam.  If you are thinking about remodeling, renovating or building a new home, please contact us to talk about ways of preventing this common problem: CONTACT US  

If you have any other questions concerning your home... visit our Ask Capecodbuilder page and let's see if we can help!