Ice dams are the accumulation of ice at the eaves and valleys of roofs, and
in some winters create major problems. Insufficient attic insulation or attic
ventilation can cause roof snow to melt and slide down to the eaves, where the
roof surface is cooler and the melting snow freezes to the roof. Subsequent
melting causes water to pool behind this dam and sometimes the water seeps
between the shingle layers, wetting the roof deck and possibly the walls and
ceilings below.
Interior damage caused by ice dam. What To Do?
1. Carefully seal all ceiling penetrations such as light fixtures to keep
warm, moist air out of the attic.
4. In new homes, roofing felt is applied from the edge of the roof to a point
not less than 12" inside the inner face of the exterior wall. In some localities
this eaves protection must go 10 or 12 feet up the roof (especially on
low-sloped roofs) and the full length of valleys.
5. Try roof heater cables as an interim measure, until it's time for new
roofing materials. Don't forget to point out the problem areas to your roofer,
so he can provide adequate protection materials.
A word to the wise: Roofing is an apparently "easy enough" job for anyone,
but there are many fine points that may escape the do-it-yourselfer. A
professional roofer can be your best friend!
About the Author:
Gil Strachan is a professional home inspector,
representing Electrospec Home Inspection Services in east-central Ontario,
Canada since 1994. www.electrospec.ca is one of the web's largest, most
authoritative home inspection information sites.
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Related Attic and Ice Damming
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