OUR ROOFS/GUTTERS AND ICE DAMMING

This last week, we've experienced an extraordinary record snowfall, blanketing everything in thick layers of white. While the beauty of fresh snow is undeniable, it can lead to serious issues like ice damming, where melted snow refreezes at the edge of the roof, potentially causing water to back up into your home. You can see this as you drive or walk around our homes.

To prevent ice dams, it's important to focus on ensuring proper attic ventilation, removing excess snow from your roof with a roof rake (probably not possible with the height of our roofs), regularly cleaning your gutters to remove debris so meltwater can flow freely, and considering adding heating cables in the eavestrough or along the roof edge, especially in vulnerable areas like valleys and around vents; essentially, the key is to maintain a consistent roof temperature by preventing warm air from escaping into the attic and melting snow on the roof unevenly. However, it's crucial to avoid climbing onto the roof to prevent accidents — instead, use long-handled tools or hire a professional for roof maintenance.

Key steps to prevent ice dams:

Attic Insulation and Ventilation:

• Properly insulate your attic to minimize heat loss from your home, preventing excessive melting on the roof's edge. 

• Ensure adequate attic ventilation to allow warm air to escape and prevent a temperature gradient across the roof

• Insulate light fixtures, fans, and vents in and under attics to block heat from reaching the roof. 

Gutter Maintenance:

• Clean your gutters thoroughly to remove leaves, debris, and other obstructions that can impede water flow. 

• Check for proper gutter slope to ensure water drains efficiently. Some of our gutters do not have downspouts so the water just trails down the shingles or walls.

Heating Cables:

• Install heating cables along the roof edge, particularly in areas prone to ice dams, to melt snow and ice buildup. Some homes have had this installed and if they are willing to share their experience or contractor information, please leave in the comments below.

Consider Roof Guards:

• For certain roof types, snow guards can be installed to help control the rate at which snow slides off the roof. 

  
  
  
  

  Try to monitor your roof vigilantly during winter, as early detection of potential ice dam issues can help prevent significant damage. Also, consult a professional roofer or contractor if you have concerns about your roof's condition or potential ice dam issues. Our homes have complex roof designs, which can make it more challenging for snow and ice to melt properly.