Information on Removing an Ice Dam
With cold weather occurring during much of the year in the Chicagoland area, it’s important that Chicagoland residents are prepared for the effects of the cold on all fronts. As a result of the cold, ice dams may form on your roof. These typically form at the edge of the roof and impede snow from draining off the roof, resulting in the potential to cause damage to not only your roof but your home. When the water begins to melt, it may cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and more. Thankfully, our team of roofers in Wilmette, Il are experienced in preventing and treating ice dams.
Causes of Ice Dams
Ice dams form because of a perfect storm of heat radiating from your home, snow and outside temperatures. There must be snow already on the roof and the higher portions of the roof’s surface must be above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower surfaces of the roof need to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit in addition to the outside temperatures being the same. Snow on the roof’s surface above 32 degrees will melt, and as this water flows down and reaches the colder areas, it freezes, turning into an ice dam. As more snow melts from above, the ice dam gets bigger.
A Difference in Roof Temperatures
Because roofs are typically pushed up against a house, the heat from the house radiates and warms the roof. This heat travels through conduction, convection and radiation.
Immediate Action
In the case that our roofers in Wilmette, Il find an ice dam on your roof, we first will remove the snow using special equipment. If water is flowing into the house, we will redirect the water elsewhere and create an efficient draining system. This should help cover any immediate issues that develop.
Long-Term Action
In the big picture, we will have to ensure that the ceilings are air-tight and may recommend increasing the amount of insulation to reduce heat loss.
Hire a Professional
You might feel tempted to complete these measures on your own, but doing so could result in more damage. It’s best to call our roofers in Wilmette, Il as soon as you notice this is an issue. Our team will take care of your roof and set it up for success in the future.
Contact us today to get started!
