Roofing in Rosemount MN | How to prevent ice dams on my roof this winter
How to prevent ice dams on my roof this winter
If you live in an area that is prone to winter storms and heavy snowfall, then you most definitely want to be proactive in preventing ice dams on your roof this winter. Ice dams occur when the snow on your roof melts, becomes water and runs underneath your shingles. The water then re-freezes at a lower temperature and can cause damage to your roof, gutters, and exterior walls. If you want to learn more about roofing in Rosemount MN, then look into how Capstone Bros. Contracting can help you and your home today.
Start with the attic
Ice dams are caused by melting snow that refreezes onto the roof and leaks under shingles or other materials. To prevent this from happening, you need to do some prep work before winter arrives. To prevent ice dams on your roof, you’ll want to start with your attic. The first step is removing any debris that may be on the roof. This will help improve airflow and prevent moisture from building up under shingles or fascia boards. If you have a crawl space or attic, inspect it for leaks and make any necessary repairs. If possible, insulate areas around pipes entering the house or anywhere cold air can enter through gaps in the insulation.
Make sure your insulation is doing its job
If it’s not, add more. The best time to insulate is before winter arrives so that you don’t have to worry about leaks or snow getting inside the insulation. If you have a crawl space, make sure there are no gaps in the foundation vents. These openings allow cold air to enter your home and cause condensation on the walls and ceilings inside the structure.
Keep your gutters clear
Keep your gutters clear of debris, especially during the winter months. Debris can clog the gutters and cause water and ice to back up into your eaves and overhang areas. If this happens, you will have water damage on your walls and ceilings inside your home.
Install the right kind of roofing for your area
There are many types of roofing and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. You should always consult with a professional before choosing what kind of roofing to install on your home. There are several factors involved in determining which type of roofing is best for your area, including:
- Climate and weather
- Roof structure (wood or concrete)
- Cost and durability
- And more!
Remove snow often
Snow and ice can be very heavy, especially when you’re trying to remove it from a roof. If you have a steep roof, removing snow can be dangerous and should only be done by professionals. Before removing any snow from your roof, make sure that you are wearing the proper safety equipment and using the right tools.
Snow can be a major problem when it comes to roof leaks. When the snow melts, it can seep into your roof and cause damage. You should remove snow from your roof at least once per week in the winter so that this does not happen. If you are unable to do this yourself, hire someone who has experience with roofing to help you out.
If ice dam formation is unavoidable, take steps to minimize damage
If you find yourself with a leaky roof in the spring, contact a professional to repair it as soon as possible. Snow removal is not something that should be taken lightly and should only be done by professionals who have experience doing it. If you are unable to do this yourself, hire someone who has experience with roofing to help you out. If ice dam formation is unavoidable, take steps to minimize damage. When you notice an ice dam, take action immediately. If you can remove the ice from your roof yourself, do so as soon as possible. If you cannot, hire a professional to do it for you.
It is important to take preventative measures before a winter ice dam forms, especially for new home owners who have never dealt with the issue. It is better to be proactive when it comes to preventing ice dams from occurring, than having to deal with the mess and expense of having them removed once they make their presence known. Checking gutters and roofing before each snowstorm can go a long way in preventing ice dams from growing on your roof. At Capstone Bros. Contracting, we’d be happy to help you and your home with our Roofing, Siding, Windows, and Storm Damage services. If you have any concerns about roof repairs or replacement, how to get your home ready for winter, or simply increasing your home’s value, contact Capstone Bros. Contracting today.