Northern Virginia can experience significant snowfall during the winter months. That’s why it’s critical for businesses and homeowners to take the necessary precautions to avoid the hazards of ice dams. Without proper preparation, your property is at risk for significant structural damage.
At Colonial Contracting, Inc., our team of roofing experts are here to help our commercial and residential customers prevent the formation of ice dams on their roofs and provide tips on what to do if they form anyway.
What Are Ice Dams & Why Are They a Problem?
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form along the edges of a roof. This prevents melted snow from draining off of the roof, allowing trapped water to then seep under shingles. As a result, you may experience roof damage, structural damage, and mold growth.
Common Causes of Ice Dams
Unfortunately, ice dams are not uncommon in Northern Virginia. Common reasons that ice dams form on commercial and residential buildings include:
- Poor attic insulation: Without proper insulation to create a thermal barrier, warm air can escape through the attic to the roof, causing snow to melt and refreeze at the colder edges of the roof.
- Heavy snow: Heavy snowfall increases the risk of ice dam formation.
- Frequent freeze-thaw cycles: In Northern Virginia’s winter climate, snow can continuously thaw and refreeze, increasing the risk of ice dams.
- Inadequate roof ventilation: Poor ventilation prevents your roof from staying uniformly cold and creates warm spots where snow can melt.
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How To Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof
A key part of winter roof protection is ice dam prevention. Our expert roofers recommend taking these proactive steps:
- Rake snow off of the roof: Snow removal is key for ice dam prevention. Use a roof rake to remove snow from the edge of your roof to minimize the change of ice formation.
- Install attic insulation: Installing attic insulation is one of our key ice dam prevention tips. Insulation will prevent heat transfer to keep your roof cold and reduce snow melt.
- Seal airflow leaks: Schedule a winter roof inspection where a technician can seal heat leaks that cause your roof to be warmer than it should.
- Install heat cables: Heat cables along the edge of your roof can melt ice and prevent dam formation.
What To Do if You Already Have Ice Dams
If you’re dealing with ice dams on your property, it’s important to act quickly. Proper ice dam removal can help minimize any damage to your roof. Start by removing any snow and using an ice-melting product in a fabric or nylon bag to create channels for water to drain. Once you are free of ice dams, call a professional to help you develop a long-term solution.
Call CCI for Roof Repairs
For all your commercial and residential roof repair needs in Northern Virginia, trust the team at Colonial Contracting, Inc. As a family-owned and -operating roofing company, we’re proud to offer customized service with uncompromising quality and value. Our services come with a 10-year limited warranty. Plus, with our A+ BBB rating, you can trust you’re in capable hands with our team.
Call Colonial Contracting, Inc. today to schedule a free roof inspection for your Northern Virginia business or home.
