How can you prevent and remove the ice dams?

Ice dams are caused mostly on heated buildings with sloping roof during winter with deep snow accumulation. When snow accumulates on roof with improper insulation, snow begins to melt near the ridge where the hot air rises first. The snow which melts goes down the warm roof and reaches the overhang, which is not warmed by attic air. As the ice dam grows more and higher, the melted water may eventually seeps under the roof shingles between the roofing and ultimately into the house.

How to prevent the ice dams?

Ice dam can be easily prevented with adequate air circulation in the attic and the cold roof. You should minimize the warm air which reaches the roof. It can be done by placing insulation between the ceiling joists and also between the rafters. The insulation should be installed in such a way that there is no opening for hot air to reach the roof. 

Moreover, you should also remove the snow from your roof once it gets to a certain point. Another preventive measure is to install an impermeable ice and water membrane under the roof. It needs to extend from the edge of eaves to at least two feet past the perimeter water line.

How to remove ice dam?

In case water is leaking inside your house due to ice dam, fill one leg of an old pair of panty hose with calcium chloride and lay it vertically on the roof across the ice dam. Calcium chloride will cut through the ice and open a channel to release the backed up water as Calcium chloride is highly effective in melting ice.

Call a professional immediately. Most of the methods to get rid of ice dams are difficult and need a bit of time in the freezing winter weather. Call your local roofing contractor in NJ. They’ll be able to come out and get rid of any current ice dams and set up a solution to keep them away until you have time to get the roof fixed permanently.

Jamie Roofing is a trusted, local roof repair contractor in NJ, they help you ensure your home and roof are safe and sound for years to come. To schedule your roof inspection, give a call at 201-549-8299 for FREE ESTIMATES today!