An Introduction to Ice Dams

What is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof, thus preventing melting snow from draining properly. This trapped water can back up under the roof shingles and seep into the home, causing damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation. Ice dams are often caused by uneven roof temperatures, where heat from the building melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes as it reaches the colder eaves.

Impact

Ice dams can significantly disrupt business operations by causing water damage to buildings, inventory, and equipment. Leaks from backed-up water may ruin ceilings, walls, and electrical systems, leading to costly repairs and potential downtime. For businesses with customer-facing locations, such visible issues can create an unprofessional appearance and deter customers.

Beyond property damage, ice dams pose serious safety risks to employees and customers. Falling ice or icicles from the dam’s edge can result in injuries, creating liability concerns for business owners and trauma and extra costs for others. As winter approaches, businesses must prioritize preparing for ice dams by ensuring proper roof inspection and insulation, maintaining drainage systems, and scheduling professional inspections to prevent operational disruptions and safety hazards.

Causes

Ice dams can form on any building when temperatures drop. However, understanding what causes ice dams during the winter is a great way to learn how to prevent them from forming at all. Here are some of their primary causes:

Heat Loss

Heat escaping from the interior of a building into the attic or roof can lead to ice dam formation. Warm air rising from poorly insulated spaces melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes when it reaches the colder edges. This repeated melting and freezing cycle creates a buildup of ice that prevents proper drainage.

Weather Conditions

Fluctuating winter weather, particularly with temperatures hovering around freezing, can contribute to ice dam development. Sunny days and cold nights promote cycles of snow melting and refreezing, increasing the likelihood of ice formation along roof edges. These conditions are especially problematic when paired with inadequate roof insulation or ventilation.

Snow Accumulation

Heavy snow accumulation on a roof provides the material needed for ice dams to form. The deeper the snowpack, the more likely it is that the snow will melt from heat loss and freeze again at the roof’s edges. Managing snow buildup through proper removal techniques is essential to reducing the risk of ice damming.

Prevention Strategies

There are different ways companies can prepare their buildings and adjust operations to prevent ice dams. It’s best to work on a multi-faceted approach to preventing ice dams to ensure that you cover all bases when prepping the building for winter. Here are some tips companies can employ to lessen the risk of ice dams forming:

Improve Energy Efficiency

Enhancing energy efficiency in a building reduces heat loss, a primary cause of ice dams. Sealing air leaks and improving attic insulation helps maintain consistent roof temperatures, preventing snow from melting and refreezing. Energy-efficient upgrades, like weatherstripping and high-quality insulation, not only reduce ice dam risks but also lower heating costs.

Roof Maintenance

Regular roof maintenance is crucial for preventing ice dams by ensuring that gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly. Removing debris and checking for damaged shingles or flashing helps water flow freely off the roof. Scheduling professional inspections before winter ensures any safety concerns and vulnerabilities are addressed early.

Weather Monitoring

Keeping an eye on weather conditions allows businesses and homeowners to prepare for potential ice dam formation. Rapid temperature changes and heavy snowfall can signal the need for proactive snow removal or heating adjustments. By staying informed, property owners can take timely actions to reduce risks and prevent costly damage.

Safety Measures for Dealing with Ice Dams

Companies should always look to prevent ice dams as winter approaches. However, it’s also important to implement workplace safety measures in case these dams form. That way, customers and employees remain safe while in the business premises during the winter. Here are a few safety measures to keep in mind:

Identify Signs of Ice Dams

Recognizing early signs of ice dams, such as icicles hanging from gutters or water stains on ceilings, is critical for preventing extensive damage. Monitoring the roof’s edges and attic for leaks or unusual ice buildup can help catch problems early. Quick action upon identifying these signs minimizes safety risks and costly repairs.

Practice Different Removal Techniques

Safe removal of ice dams can include using tools like roof rakes to clear snow or applying de-icing products to melt ice. Avoiding risky methods, such as chipping away at the ice with sharp objects, reduces the likelihood of damaging the roof or causing injuries. Proper technique ensures ice dams are managed without worsening the problem.

Know When to Call Professionals

Some ice dams require professional expertise to address safely and effectively. Hiring experts can prevent further issues and protect property if the ice buildup is extensive or causing significant damage. Professionals have specialized tools and training to remove ice dams without endangering individuals or the structure.