What is an Ice Dam?

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

What is an ice dam?

Simply put, an ice dam is an accumulation of ice on the eaves of a roof. When your attic is overheated, it can cause the snow on your roof to melt and pool against ice on the cold edge. You can usually tell when ice dams have formed by seeing dry spots on your roof and icicles overhanging the side.  

How are ice dams formed?

Ice dams are usually caused from attics being overheated from air leakage. The heat emanates through the attic to the roof and melts the snow on top. This melted snow then pools against the icicles on the eaves of the house with nowhere else to go. Over time, the water may seep into your house and cause water damage. 

For information on how to prevent ice dams, see our article 3 Tips for Preventing Ice Dams.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions about water damage from ice dams, please do not hesitate to call the SERVPRO of Bend office at 541-385-7044.

Sources:
Houle Insulation