Ice Dam Removal

Ice dams refer to the formation of ice ridges in the edges of roofs, which block the pathway of melting snow. As the draining water accumulates between the ridges and snow resulting in a dam like feature, they are called ice dams. Many times, the retained water leaks into the house and cause severe damage to the roofs, walls, ceilings, insulation and other places. This again makes a favorable condition for mold and mildew infestations. Hence, removing ice dams should be done as early as possible to avoid any such structural damages. Before we discuss regarding ice dam removal, let's take a look at the factors responsible for formation of ice dams.

What Causes an Ice Dam?

As far as formation of an ice dam is concerned, the environmental temperature, amount of snowfall and heat loss from the house (precisely roof) all play an equal role. For example, snow deposition on the roof takes place only when the roof temperature is below 32° F. Otherwise, roof or surrounding temperatures higher than this particular level will surely lead to melting of snow and eventually, no ice dam formation. Hence, snow accumulates in the roof surface only at low temperature conditions.

Another factor is the loss of heat from a home, in which heat escaping through certain parts of the roofing will increase temperature of the particular roof surface and cause snow melting. This water falls along the slope gradient and meets the point where the roof temperature is below 32° F. At this, the melting water collects due to obstruction by the accumulated ice. Thus, an ice dam is formed in the roof. The size of an ice dam will increase as long as there is continuous feeding of melting snow from above.

How to Remove Ice Dam?

Speaking about removal of an ice dam, you can prevent its formation at the first instant by removing snow on a regular basis. As soon as you notice snow above the roof, remove it with the help of a roof rake or push broom. By doing so, you are eliminating one of the key ingredients required for making an ice dam. In case of ice dams already formed, removing ice dams from the roofs can be done by using shovel, urea fertilizer and heat tape. Mention below are the steps for removing ice dams:

Climb on an extension ladder and position yourself safely near to the ice dam. Then, start with breaking off the snow and ice from your roofs with the shovel. After breaking them, wipe off the ice with a broom. It is not compulsory to remove them all, but clean off as far as you can. This will help you in getting rid of the ice dam effectively. Ensure that you do it carefully to prevent from injuring yourself and roof.

The next step is spreading urea over the ice dams. The high nitrogen content in urea fertilizer help in melting ice dams. Wait till the fertilizer acts on the ice, which will cause falling of the ice flakes. If it does not work out, you can sprinkle fertilizer again. Taking necessary precautions, run the heat tape in an irregular fashion to melt down remaining ice. You can run heat tape in the gutter (if any) to create water drainage pathways. This heat tape application is of little use if you have sufficient room ventilation.

This way, you can consider ice dam removal on your own. If you find it very challenging, then consult professionals who are expertise in various ice dam removal systems. The most effectual permanent solution to prevent ice dam formation is sealing the roof to make it airtight. This will block the passage of escaping warm air from living rooms or attic space. If possible, install quality insulation systems to minimize heat loss from the room interiors.