How Are Ice Dams Affecting Your Minnesota Home?

Winters in Minnesota can bring many beautiful sights alongside holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, winter also brings the threat of ice dams. While the term ice dam doesn't sound too deadly, it can cause significant damage.

Homeowners can't control the weather or eliminate snow and ice from invading their homes. However, having the proper measures in place can prevent you from needing costly repairs.

We'll explore everything you need to know about ice dams and how to prevent them from occurring.

How Do Ice Dams Form?

Melting snow can form ice dams near your roof's edge. Throughout winter, you can expect temperatures to fluctuate. While your attic collects extra heat, snow melts on the eaves of your roof.

As this ice starts to melt, ice buildups will begin forming. These buildups create snow blockages, continually melting and refreezing. Since these blockages can't move, they start entering your house structure.

What Can Water Leakage Do?

It's crucial to know how water can damage your home.

Interior Water Damage

Upon entering your home, dammed water causes damage to areas like:

  • Your attic
  • Your insulation
  • Your windows and more

Depending on your home, it might take little time for melted snow and ice to move from your attic and into other areas. Damaged insulation means it'll be harder to heat and cool your home. Additionally, a leaky ice dam can damage your interior and exterior walls.

Respiratory problems can also occur since excessive moisture attracts mold. Therefore, when faced with an ice dam on your roof, removing it becomes crucial.

Exterior Water Damage

Besides damaging your home's interior, an ice dam can also target your gutters, siding, and shingles. These reasons make ice dams more harmful than icicles hanging from your roofing.

Damaged gutters and roof shingles make it harder for your home to protect itself from winter. In addition, an ice dam may lead you to need a minor or massive roof repair.

Preventing an Ice Dam

Removing an ice dam on your roof is possible, but preventative measures always make the best option. Some ways you can prevent an ice dam on your roof include:

  • Insulating your home: Reinsulate your home shortly before winter to avoid a water leak from entering. Using a thermal camera, a blower door test can depressurize your home and check for poor insulation.
  • Ensuring you have plenty of ventilation: Providing the proper ventilation for your home can stop ice dams from forming or at least getting bigger.
  • Checking your home for any air leaks: Air leaking from your home can create uneven heat distributions throughout your roof. Check if your home has any air leaks and seal them promptly.
  • Having your home checked by professionals: Lastly, before winter, you should have professionals inspect your home and roof for any issues.

For a Siding Company Near Me, Call Younger Exteriors

Ice dams can put homeowners on edge as they create many issues. However, our Younger Exteriors team can winterize your home, preventing this from happening.

Winterize your Minnesota home or receive the best storm damage repair by calling us at (612) 360-0320!