Seeing rooftops covered with snow and icicles hanging on the roofline of your Oregon home may seem idyllic, but it could be a sign of something more treacherous. You may also have the perfect conditions for ice dam formation. Ice dams are thick masses of ice that are caused by ongoing melting and freezing of water along your roofline. A warm roof melts the snow, sending meltwater down the roof where it refreezes. As this process continues, the ice dam grows larger, and water will begin to accumulate behind it. Ice dams can be extremely damaging to your roof and gutter system.
Hot to Prevent Ice Dams
Ice dams are a result of heat escaping from below the surface of a roof, which creates an imbalance in roof temperature. The key to preventing this is to keep a consistent temperature on your roof. The following tips can help you avoid ice dams.
- Beef up the amount of insulation in your attic. Make sure your attic insulation is in good condition and that you have a minimum of 12 inches of cellulose or fiberglass insulation.
- Add extra ventilation. Having adequate ventilation, such as soffit vents or adding additional ventilation strips in the eaves, can improve the air circulation. This will keep cool air moving in and warmer air moving out.
- Keep your attic cool. Avoid leaving on lights, keeping doors open, or otherwise allowing warm air in the attic.
- Seal any potential air leaks. Air leaks can be a major source of heat loss. Seal potential problem areas such as drywall gaps, openings around chimneys, plumbing pipes, or any other opening in the ceiling.
- Contact a professional to install a moisture barrier.
Ice dams can damage your Medford roof in a number of ways. You may experience issues such as roof leaks, gutter damage, or shingles that become loose. Unnoticed roof damage can lead to soggy insulation, ceiling damage, or warped floors. If you suspect roof damage due to ice dams, contact Hadley Roofing. Our team of highly qualified roofers have the experience you need. To schedule a roof inspection, simply contact us via our website, or give us a call at 541-779-9545.