How to help prevent Ice Dams in Minnesota?

An ice dam on the roof can be a major problem, as it can cause water to back up into your home and cause damage. Ice dams occur when snow on the roof melts and then refreezes at the edge of the roof. This can be caused by poor insulation, poor ventilation, or a combination of both. Here are some steps you can take to fix an ice dam on your roof:

1. Remove the snow from your roof: Use a snow rake to remove as much snow as possible from your roof. This will help prevent any additional melting and refreezing of snow at the edge of your roof.
2. Melt the ice dam: You can use a calcium chloride ice melt to melt the ice dam. Do not use rock salt, as it can damage your roof. Place the ice melt in a nylon stocking and lay it across the ice dam. This will help prevent the ice melt from running off the roof too quickly.
3. Clear the gutters: Once the ice dam has melted, clear any debris from your gutters to ensure that water can flow freely away from your roof.
4. Improve insulation: If poor insulation is the cause of your ice dam, consider adding more insulation to your attic. This will help prevent heat from escaping through the roof and melting snow.
5. Improve ventilation: If poor ventilation is the cause of your ice dam, consider adding additional roof vents or installing a ventilation system in your attic. This will help ensure that warm air is properly vented out of your attic.
6. Consult a professional: If you are unsure about how to fix an ice dam on your roof, or if your ice dam is particularly large or dangerous, consult the experts here at Minnesota Made Roofing and Remodeling. They can assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action.

Remember, preventing an ice dam from forming in the first place is the best course of action. Make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated, and remove snow from your roof as soon as possible after a snowfall. By taking these steps, you can help prevent future ice dams and avoid damage to your home. If you have any questions or need help assessing the cause of the ice dam and need a plan of action call 763-350-2509