Ice Dams in Southwest Michigan
Lake-effect snow and repeated freeze-thaw cycles make ice dams common in the Kalamazoo area. Understanding why they form is the key to stopping them.
Request a rooferThe cause
Heat leaking from the house into the attic warms the roof. Snow melts on the warm part and refreezes at the cold eaves, building a dam of ice.
The damage
Water trapped behind the ice backs up under shingles and leaks into walls and ceilings, often near exterior walls.
Warning signs
Thick ice and big icicles along the eaves, frost in the attic and stains near the edges of upstairs ceilings during a thaw.
Don't chip it
Hammering or chipping at ice damages shingles and gutters. Roofers remove ice with low-pressure steam.
Roof rake
From the ground, a roof rake can pull the first few feet of snow off the edge after big storms. Never climb a snowy roof.
Seal the attic
Gaps around light fixtures, attic hatches, plumbing and chimneys let warm air into the attic. Sealing them is the most effective fix.
Insulation and ventilation
More insulation and balanced ventilation keep the roof deck cold.
At replacement
An ice and water membrane at the eaves adds protection when the roof is replaced.
Get help
See ice dams.
Heat cables
Heat cables along the eaves can keep a channel open in problem areas, but they treat the symptom. They need power, inspection and correct installation to be safe.
Gutters and ice
Clogged gutters freeze into solid troughs of ice that add to the dam. Clean gutters each fall to give meltwater a path.
Bathroom fans
Bathroom fans that vent into the attic add warm, wet air that feeds frost and ice. Make sure they duct to the outside.
More roofing guides
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