Ice dams are serious concerns for homeowners throughout the Midwest during winter. These ice barriers form along the edges of roofing and prevent melted snow from draining into the gutters. The standing water can corrode your roof's membranes, weakening the overall structural integrity and causing leaks and air loss inside the house. Here are strategies to minimize the risk of ice dams forming, so you can reduce the likelihood of significant damage. 

3 Ways to Prevent Ice Dams

1. Make the Attic Ceiling Airtight

Ice dams form when the surface temperatures on the upper part of the roof are warm while the lower portion is at the freezing point. These temperature differences usually occur due to heat loss in the home. Excess warmth seeps through the roof and causes the snow to melt rapidly and refreeze when it reaches the cold edge. Insulating the attic ceiling to stop heat loss helps prevent uneven snowmelt by keeping the roof's surface temperature uniform. 

2. Remove the Snow

A clean roof saves you from worrying about excess melting and ice dams. To clear off your roofing system, use a broom or rake with a wide, flat head to push snow off the areas you can access. If you use a ladder to reach higher points, make sure to have someone stabilize it to prevent accidents while you work. 

Don't walk on the roof to remove snow from the highest points. Instead, wait for a warm day and open a window in the attic or on the uppermost floor so you can spray the roof with water to get rid of the snow buildup.  

3. Improve the Ventilation System

To keep the roof temperature close to the outdoor temperature, install vents in the soffits, which are located where the siding and roof connect. Cold outside air will enter through soffit vents and exit through vents at the roof ridge to maintain a more consistent temperature at all levels.

If you need help managing ice dams this season, reach out to Molloy Roofing in Cincinnati, OH. These licensed, insured roofers provide a wide range of repair and ventilation solutions to protect your home from water damage year-round. Visit them online for more on how they help homeowners, and call (513) 791-7400 for an estimate.