What are Ice Dams

1/21/2019 (Permalink)

Ice dams on the outside can cause water damage to an interior of a structure like at this home in Dallas, PA. Be pro-active to avoid this damage.

The weekend forecast calls for exceptionally cold weather. This is problematic on several fronts for homeowners and businesses, but with the recent snow on the roofs, ice damming is a main concern.

What is an ice dam?

Ice dams are a pervasive and damaging winter roofing problem caused by poor roof ventilation and a warm attic space. Left untreated, ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof, gutters, paint, insulation, drywall, structure and even contribute to mold. Ice dams form when melting snow on a roof runs off and refreezes at the edge of a roof. This condition occurs when the snow is melted by a warm roof, creating water running between the snow and the warm roof surface, then freezing and turning to ice when it gets past the exterior wall and hits a cold unheated roof edge or gutter.

The water backs up and eventually seeps into the inside of the home or business. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake responds to many water emergencies which are the result of ice damming. Water is an amazing phenomenon and without professional drying can lead to both structural and health concerns over the long run.

Be proactive and prevent your home or business from experiencing an ice damming situation and a costly repair. However, if it does occur call a professional restoration company to ensure you and your family's health and safety. SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harvey's Lake  is the back Mountain/Western Luzerne county's leader in smoke, fire and water cleanup. We are an IICRC certified firm and follow all the recommended guidelines in drying any water disaster. An emergency services company we are available 24/7/365.