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An ice dam is a common problem of maintaining a building properly during winters in cold climate areas. This article explains what are ice dams, how do they occur, what can be done to prevent them and how to deal with them as they occur.

Ice dams happen when snow builds up on the roof of a structure with poor insulation and poor attic ventilation. Ice dams often cause leaky roof, stains and cracks in plaster or drywall, and other water damages.

The Causes of Ice Dams

Ice formed at the transition from a warm to a cold roof surface. Typically formed at the over hang (eave). Snow melts down from the warm area of the roof, over attic space, to the eave where the temperature is the same as the ambiant temperature, where it freezes. For ice dams to occur there must be snow or ice on the roof, and, at the same time, higher portions of the roof’s external surface must be above 32° F while lower surfaces are below 32°F.

How to Avoid Ice Dams

Ice dams can be avoided by proper maintenance and insulation. Heat loss from a building must be well controlled by checking the insulation periodically and confirming that it is properly laid out and not damaged. If wet, insulation must be dried out immediately and in some, more extensive cases, completely replaced

How to Handle Ice Dams When they Occur

First Aid

First Aid is required if an ice dam creates immediate problems such as water in the building or any other type of water damage. In this case, remove as much excess snow from your roof as possible. By doing so you will eliminate the cause of the ice dams.

You will have to create channels through the ice dam to allow water behind the dam to drain off the roof. Try running tap or warmer water into the drain to melt down the ice.

Preventative Measures

For longer lasting solutions, increase the roof insulation on both sides to reduce heat loss. Tighten up the ceiling air so no warm air can flow from the house into the attic space. This solution may create a structural stability problem due to increased loads on the roof so be sure to consult with an engineer.

If you want to prevent water damage in your home or office, you must first learn where to look for and what are the different causes of this kind of damage. This article covers the invisible causes of water damage, those that are a little harder to detect by simple do-it-yourself inspections. There is additional material about the visible causes of water damage that you need to read in order to fully understand the subject. A good understanding of the subject will not only provide you with great techniques to prevent water damage but also will help you save money and will keep your house in good shape, preserving its value for many years. While you can control some of the causes for damage, others cannot be predicted and therefore cannot be prevented.

Plumbing:

Plumbing equipment usually develops leaks due failures in joints or hose attachment.

Internal wall leaks are even harder to discover and can cause major damage.

Pipes

The common problems in pipes are blocked toilets and drains (especially kitchen drains), failure of garbage disposals, and roots in sewer lines .

Weather:

Unpredictable summer storms, floods, and other water accompanied disasters such as hurricanes, blizzards, and tornados are some more reasons for water damage.

Heating Systems and Air Conditions:

Neglecting air conditioners leads to poor performance, expensive operating costs and moisture issues. Moist cooling ducts promote mold and other water-borne bacteria.

Appliances:

Water heaters, washers, and dryers tend to crack over time, allowing water to trickle. Although these appliances will start leaking slowly, this leak can grow and cause a flood when completely failed. Hoses tend to deteriorate inside out, resulting in leaks as well.

Basements:

A wet basement is caused by moisture accumulations that drip through the foundations. When moisture evaporates, it increases humidity even if there are no leaks or standing water. Another common cause is condensation on the cold concrete walls and floors during more humid time periods.

It is recommended to inspect your home periodically to ensure that it stays in good condition and keeps its real market value. A periodic inspection will also help preventing high-costs restoration projects after water related disasters.