Ice dams occur when gutters are blocked as precipitation freezes into massive ice formations. Dams can cause leaks and pull gutters off metal roofing, as they grow increasingly heavy with the accumulation of snowmelt and debris. Use the below advice to mitigate dams, so you can prevent these issues from happening to your home.

4 Tips for Removing Ice Dams

1. Remove Snow From Your Rooftop

You can prevent ice dams from forming or worsening by removing snow from your roof. Use a long roof rake to gently shovel ice and snow onto the ground. This prevents snow from building up and refreezing in the gutters.

2. Nix Icicles

If you spot icicles hanging down from the gutters, make note of this area, as it’s a good candidate for hosting an ice dam in the near future. Carefully use a roof rake or shovel to knock down the icicles, as this will alleviate pressure on your gutters stemming from the weight of the ice. This prevents your gutter system from breaking away from your metal roofing, and eliminates the possibility of icicles developing into a full-blown dam.

3. Install Heated Cables

Some homes experience ice dams every year, due to extensive precipitation and snowfall coupled with unique roofing conditions, like the  angle of each slope and the amount of light exposure it gets. If this sounds familiar, consider installing heated cables on the edge of the metal roofing, to melt snow and ice, ensuring it’s ability flow through the gutters and on the ground. 

4. Improve Insulation

Those looking for a more long-term fix should have a contractor better insulate and ventilate their attic. By making this space airtight, you’ll raise the temperature of the roof, which makes it difficult for ice to form. Plus, you’ll save money on heating costs by improving the energy efficiency of your home.

If your metal roofing has been damaged by ice dams, consider purchasing new panels from Magic Metals Inc. in Palmer, AK. The company has been in business for more than 35 years, offering standard and customized metal roofing and siding. Call (907) 746-7800 or visit the website for information on their residential and commercial offerings, including providing construction guides to help contractors properly handle, store, and install metal panels.