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Did you know that the average lifespan of a roof is about 15 years or more (depending on the type of roof)? But replacing it can be incredibly expensive costing you thousands of dollars.
Keeping your roof in tip-top shape to last for the long term includes preventing ice dams. What can you do to prevent this from happening to you?
We’re here to help! Read this quick but detailed guide on how to prevent ice dams on your roof today!
Ice storms can be deadly or lead to troublesome outcomes such as ice dams. Before dealing with ice dams, it’s important to wipe the snow off of your roof and regularly remove it to avoid future occurrences.
Remove the first 3-4 inches of snow from your roofline. You can use a long-handled brush or roof rake.
This will allow you to clean your roof without having to pull out the ladder. Clear out downspouts as well to ensure that water can drain properly.
For the long-term, ensure that the ceiling is airtight. This ensures that no moisture can go from the house into the attic.
Heated cables will prevent ice dams that can cause leaks and lift shingles. This will let you equalize your roof’s temperature by heating it from the outside. It’s important to place them before the bad weather hits.
If you have a soffit vent with a ridge vent, it’ll circulate the cold air underneath the entire roof. You’ll want them to provide at least 1 square foot of opening for every 300 square feet of the attic floor. They need to also be the same size openings as well.
All ducts that are connected to the dryer, bathroom, and kitchen need to lead outdoors through the walls or roof. Never have them go through the soffit.
Use L-shaped steel flashing between your house framing and chimney. Use unbroken beads of a fire-stop sealant. Avoid using canned spray foam since it isn’t safe.
Fixing ice dams on the roof can be taken care of by a roofing professional. In order to get rid of ice dams, you’ll want to take a box fan into your attic.
Aim the fan with cold air at the underside of the roof where the water is leaking in. This will freeze the water when dealing with ice dams.
After exploring this guide, you should see how preventing ice dams is a possibility! Take your time preventing them and if problems arise, speak with your local roofing pro.
Are you currently experiencing an ice dam and aren’t sure what to do? We can help! Contact us today, and we’ll come up with an action plan that meets your needs today.
