What is Ice Damming? How to Protect Your Roof This Winter
Winter in New Hampshire brings beautiful snow-covered landscapes, but it also comes with certain hazards for homeowners. One of the biggest challenges for homes in cold climates is the formation of ice dams on roofs. Left unchecked, ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof, gutters, and even the interior of your home.
What is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from properly draining off. When water backs up behind the dam, it can leak into the home, causing damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.
Ice dams typically form in cold climates where snow builds up on rooftops. Although they may look harmless at first, ice dams can cause significant, expensive damage if not addressed promptly.
Why Do Ice Dams Form?
Ice dams form due to an uneven roof temperature. This happens when the upper part of a roof is warmer than the lower edges.
How Bad Are Ice Dams?
Ice dams can cause a range of problems, from minor inconvenience to major structural damage. Some of the most common risks associated with ice dams include: roof damage, gutter damage, interior water damage, and heat loss.
Tips for Preventing Ice Dams
Consult with a professional contractor who can ensure your roof is prepared for the harsh winter months. A roofing professional will focus on achieving proper ventilation in your attic and roof space to help prevent ice dams. This includes installing soffit and ridge vents for consistent airflow and using cap shingles as necessary to allow your roof to breathe.
During roof installation, an ice and waterproof underlayment is applied, along with a synthetic water-resistant underlayment. These layers act as a moisture barrier and serve as your roof’s first line of defense against water infiltration. Next, durable asphalt shingles—known for their affordability, resilience, and wide color selection—will be secured to the roof. Our shingles are manufactured here in New England and designed specifically to withstand the region’s challenging weather.
Protect Your Roof and Home this Winter
Ice dams are a common yet preventable winter hazard. With the right preparations, you can keep your roof protected and your home safe from leaks and other winter damage. Investing in insulation, ventilation, and regular maintenance can go a long way in keeping your roof ice-dam-free this season.
If you have any questions about ice dams or need assistance preparing your roof for winter, NH Grand Roofs is here to help! Contact us today.
