When thick ice dams develop along the eaves of roofs, they prevent snow melt from draining off the roof and can lead to severe water leaks (University of Minnesota, 2019). This article examines the causes of ice dams and covers prevention techniques.

If a home has poor attic insulation and cold outdoor temperatures, then the temperature differences between the roof deck and the attic can create ice dams. As warm air from conditioned living spaces seeps into the attic, it heats the roof and melts snow that is already there. Apex Insulation Solutions is fine when it is happening on the sunny parts of the roof but as soon as the melted snow reaches the soffit and eave areas, it will re-freeze because these areas are much colder.

Preventing Ice Dams with Proper Attic Insulation

The refreezing of the melted snow creates an ice dam that eventually blocks the drainage of the roof. This can allow water to back up under the shingles leading to a ceiling leak and moisture problems throughout the house.

The most important factor in preventing ice dams is proper attic insulation and air sealing. This means ensuring the attic is insulated to the recommended R-value for your area of the country and that there are no holes into the attic from things like wiring, junction boxes, recessed lights or the attic hatch. The other key is good air sealing around the ducts in the attic and ensuring that there is no air leakage from the conditioned living space into the attic. Closed-cell spray foam insulation is the preferred method of insulating an attic with an unvented roof since it is moisture resistant. This type of insulation is not a DIY project and requires proper licensing, permits and experience to ensure the installation is done properly without causing leaks into the living space.

Apex Insulation Solutions
Fort Worth, TX 76118
(214) 354-5911