10 Jan 2023

What Can You Put on a Roof to Prevent Ice Dams?

What Can You Put on a Roof to Prevent Ice Dams?

An ice dam forming on your roof is a common sight during Nebraska winters. Ice dams can damage both your roof and the inside of your home, while also putting gutters and downspouts at risk. However, the good news is there are several things you can do to prevent ice dams from forming.

Do you have any ice build-up on the edge of your roof? If so, there are several solutions to clear ice dams. If not, better yet. However, there are still steps you should take in order to prevent ice dams before they invade your roof line.

What Can You Put on a Roof to Prevent Ice Dams?

What Are Ice Dams?

An ice dam is a buildup of ice that occurs along the edge of the roof. It is caused by melting snow that is unable to drain off the roof due to the presence of the ice dam. The water that is trapped by the dam can seep into the home, causing damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.

Why Are Ice Dams Dangerous?

Ice dams pose a serious risk for your home, and it’s something that most insurance companies are already aware of (though most homeowners are not).

The first reason why an ice dam is dangerous is the additional weight it can place on your roof. When a roof isn’t prepared for heavy snow and ice, the extra weight can cause the roof to lean in as the snow builds up – and eventually collapse.

If the roof doesn’t collapse entirely, ice dams can also cause damage to a roof over time and cause weak spots. Weak spots can cause leaks, or they can eventually also lead to a roof that caves in on its inhabitants.

Ice dams can also cool down the house quite a bit, which leads to an increase in heating bills.

When Do Ice Dams Occur?

There are three main reasons why an ice dam can occur on top of your roof:

  • When temperatures on the inside of the home and the outside of the roof are drastically different. Snow melts as a result of warm air from the attic insulation and pools on the edge of the roof.
  • When there is an accumulation of snow on the roof, placing a large amount of weight on the roof of the building.
  • When there is snow, usually over a long period of time.

The question that everyone should ask is whether their home is prepared for extreme weather conditions. Usually, the answer is that your roof isn’t. Hire a professional roofing company in your area to inspect your roof for any preventable issues.

Preventing Ice Dams

Ice dam prevention is possible. Prepare your roof and call in the services of a local roofing expert far before you wonder what kind of damage heavy snowfall might cause to your roof.

Here’s what you can do to prevent ice dams from becoming a problem.

1. Insulation

The first step to preventing ice dams? Proper attic insulation can stop the ice from forming in the first place.

2. Heated Wiring

Heated panels or wiring is a common solution for commercial buildings where snow is expected, but they are also used for homes. Wiring, like insulation, stops the potential of ice from forming in one spot.

3. Heat Tape

Heat tape is a great way to prevent ice dams. However, heat tape is not recommended for asphalt roofing. Heat tape is not a viable solution for asphalt roofs due to the potential fire risk in hotter weather.

4. Roof Structure

While it’s a more expensive solution, changes to roof structure can be a more permanent way to protect your roof. This can also work for other forms of extreme weather, and gives you an extra boost to your insulation. Talk to a roofing company in your area to learn about the best types of roofing for your home.

America’s Best Choice Omaha, NE | Omaha Residential Window Replacement Company | Roofing Company Omaha, NE

We pride ourselves on hiring only the most knowledgeable and experienced installers in the industry. We know how important this investment is to a homeowner and we want to educate you on every aspect you should consider before making your final decision.

America’s Best Choice Omaha also offers you a competitive price that you will afford without draining your funds. We also work with all insurance companies to ensure that we keep your costs to a minimum. Proudly, we are also an Accredited Business with the BBB!

We offer FREE, No-Obligation Estimates. Call us or fill out our form today if you have any questions on whether you need a minor repair or to replace your old roof with a new roof. We will be more than happy to offer our best recommendation that will offer more quality for your dollar.

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