The $10,000 mistake - how to prevent ice dams

 Living in Southeastern Wisconsin, we’re no strangers to beautiful, snowy winters. But while those snow-covered roofs look like a scene from a postcard, they can actually be hiding a very expensive problem: ice dams.

An ice dam occurs when heat from inside your home escapes into the attic and warms up the roof, melting the snow on top. That water runs down to the colder edges of your roof (the eaves) and freezes again. This creates a literal dam of ice that prevents melting snow from draining. Instead, the water backs up under your shingles and leaks into your walls, ceilings, and insulation.

The damage can easily climb to $10,000 or more once you factor in roof repairs, drywall replacement, and mold remediation.

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The Secret to Prevention: The 6-Foot Rule

The best way to stop an ice dam before it starts is to manage the snow before it has a chance to melt and refreeze.

The most effective tool in your winter arsenal is a long-handled roof rake. After a heavy snowfall, use the rake to gently pull snow off the first three to six feet of your roof’s edge. By keeping those eaves clear, you ensure that any melting water has a clear path to the gutters and downspouts rather than getting trapped by a wall of ice.

Pro Tip: Focus especially on the areas above your entryways and any spots where you've noticed large icicles forming in the past.

Long-Term Fixes for Your Home

While raking is a great immediate fix, you should also look at the "why" behind the ice. Here are three things to check to keep your roof healthy for years to come:

• Insulate Your Attic: Make sure your attic floor is well-insulated to keep the heat in your living space and out of the attic.

• Improve Ventilation: A cool attic is a happy attic. Proper ridge and soffit vents allow cold air to circulate under the roof, keeping the temperature uniform.

• Seal Air Leaks: Small gaps around light fixtures, chimneys, and attic hatches are common culprits for letting warm air escape.

Watch Out for Warning Signs

If you see massive, heavy icicles forming only on the edge of the roof (and not on the gutters), or if you notice water stains on your ceiling after a big snow, you likely have an ice dam starting. Don't wait until the water is dripping onto your floor to take action!

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Taking a few minutes to clear your roof after a storm can save you a massive headache—and a massive repair bill—later this spring.

Stay warm and stay dry out there!