Ice Dams

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

This shows a depiction of an ice dam.

Ice dams occur when your attic is not isolated from the rest of the house with proper air sealing and insulation. If it is not isolated, it can become warm and moist. Warm attics can help melt the bottom layer of snow on the roof and the water then runs down to the gutter where it refreezes. This is the beginning of an ice dam. This in turn forms a ridge of ice at the edge of the roof. The problem with this is that it causes water to back up behind the dam which in turn can leak into a home. Water leaking into your home is definitely something you don’t want to happen as it can cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.

In order to prevent ice dams here are some steps you can take.

• Close up attic bypasses- these areas are unblocked walls, gaps in drywall, and cracks around light fixtures, plumbing pipes and any other ceiling penetration.
• Measure your attic insulation level- It is required to have about 12 to 14 inches of fiberglass or cellulose according to building codes.
• Add roof and soffit vents

Should you run into water damage due to an ice dam don’t hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Burlington! We are available 24/7!