Winter Weather can cause Ice Dams. You may ask. What is an Ice Dam? Is it serious?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Yes. It can be very serious. As beautiful as the snow can be with the look of icicles hanging on the edge of the rooftop like crystals from a chandelier, this beauty can be deceiving and cause mega damage.

~Ice Dams are the cause of an accumulation of snow on your rooftop that begins to melt due to the warm air in the attic of a home or commercial structure.

As the snow melts the water runs to the colder edges which are your eaves and gutters and forms large chucks of ice. As the snow and ice continues to melt the water can seep under your shingles and travel.

Water having no where to go could end up in your walls, attic and ceilings.

Signs to look for would be sagging drywall or ceiling. Peeling paint. Spots around your doors or windows. Or an area that is starting to look unsafe. Water can cause wood to rot. Use your nose. If you experience an odor along with this scenario you can be sure mold is beginning to set in.

All seasons have challenges when it come to the elements of nature.

Here are some suggestions that may help prevent ice dams from effecting your abode.

1. Shingles that are damaged or worn should be replaced.
2. Gutters that are filled should be emptied.
3. If you or someone you know can safely get to the top of the build and use a roof rake to remove the snow would greatly help.
4. Heat cables are also an option as a preventative precaution to very cold temperatures and fallen snow.

If you are unsure whether or not you have an Ice Damn that is cause for concern at your residence or business, call your local SERVPRO.

SERVPRO of Oak Park/ Ferndale: 248-246-0790. We are here to help.