What Ice Dams Are and Associated Problems

As pretty as icicles hanging from the side of a home may be, they actually cause a lot of problems. These icicles, also known as ice dams, are Omaha, NE roofing contractors worst nightmare in the winter, and should be yours too. Before severe winter weather hits this year, learn more about what ice dams are and associated problems with them according to residential roofing companies in Omaha, NE.

 

Formation of Ice Dams

Ice dams are a thick build-up of solid ice along the edge of a roof. They form due to poor insulation and inadequate ventilation in the attic. After a heavy snowfall, the heat in your attic warms the roof, but not at the eaves. This heat causes the snow at the top of the roof to melt, which then refreezes once it reaches the cold eaves. This accumulation of ice eventually forms a dam and the melted snow water will start to back up behind the dam with nowhere to go. Once this happens, the water will find its way under the shingles, thus dripping through the ceiling.

Problems of Ice Dams

Like we mentioned earlier, ice dams are a nightmare for the your roofing companies in Omaha, NE. There are many problems associated with ice dams. Because water pools behind the dam, it eventually flows through the shingles and roof deck and then into the attic. If the ice dam isn’t removed and the attic ventilation isn’t fixed, major roof leaks will ensue and lead you needing roof repair in Omaha, NE.

Stay tuned to our blog page to learn how the best roofing contractor in Omaha, NE prevents ice dams and how to remove them. It will be crucial to know for this winter’s “polar coaster.” For more information regarding residential roofing in Omaha, NE, or commercial roofing in Omaha, NE, contact Shamrock Roofing and Construction.