Ice Dams: Why Water Leaks Into Your Ceiling in the Middle of Winter
If you see a water stain on the ceiling in January, it's probably not a roof hole. It's an ice dam.
How they form
Heat from the house warms the roof deck. Snow melts, runs down to the cold edge of the roof and freezes again. That ridge of ice traps the next round of meltwater, which backs up under the shingles and into the attic, insulation and ceiling.
What to do if one is leaking
- Put a bucket under the drip and move anything valuable
- Take photos of the stain and the ice on the roof for insurance
- Don't chip at the ice with a hammer or shovel. It tears up shingles
- Call us. We'll dry the attic and ceiling and check the insulation
How to stop them for good
The fix is in the attic: better insulation and air sealing so heat stays in the house, plus good roof ventilation so the deck stays cold. Ice and water shield along the eaves at the next reroof helps too. See roofing and water damage restoration.
Call or text Ben: (612) 991-5525 any time, day or night.
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