10/16/2026
With the winter months right around the corner this is a great time to discuss ice dams, their cause, and how to prevent them:
What Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams are accumulations of ice that form along roof edges, preventing melting snow from draining properly. Water can back up behind the ice and potentially leak beneath shingles, causing damage to roof decking, insulation, ceilings, and interior finishes.
Common Causes:
* Poor attic insulation: Heat escaping from the living space warms the roof deck, causing snow to melt.
* Inadequate attic ventilation: Insufficient airflow can allow heat to accumulate in the attic, contributing to uneven roof temperatures.
* Snow-blocked attic vents: Snow or ice obstructing soffit intake vents or ridge/roof exhaust vents can restrict ventilation and reduce airflow through the attic.
* Air leakage: Warm, moist indoor air escaping through gaps around ceiling penetrations, attic hatches, recessed lights, and other openings can warm the attic and roof deck.
* Freeze-thaw conditions: Meltwater flows toward colder roof edges, refreezes, and gradually builds an ice barrier.
Its not too late to have your attic inspected for proper insulation levels before winter and have it corrected! Serving Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Portage, and Stark Counties in Ohio--and Mercer, Lawrence Counties in Pennsylvania!
