In a Jam with Ice Dams

3/28/2017 (Permalink)

     Although icicles do look like pretty prisms dangling from your roof, they are also a sign of big trouble. This is because the same conditions that create icicles -snow covered roofs, freezing temps and cold winds- can also lead to ice dams.  Ice dams are thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the overhang of your house.  Ice dams grow heavy and tear off gutters, damage windows and siding, loosen shingles and cause water to back up and pour into your house.  As a result you could have peeling paint, warped floors, stained and sagging ceilings and dreaded mold! When a harsh and lasting winter storm hits with heavy snow and extremely frigid temperatures this kind of damage is almost inevitable.          

    However you can stay ahead of the game with a few simple tricks. Keep an eye out for icicles, check for backflow under the roofs shingles, and watch for interior leaks. Heated cables can also be used to fight ice dams. By attaching the cables with clips to the roof in a zigzag pattern, it will help control the roof's temperature and prevent damage.  Or you can place a box fan in the attic and aim it at the underside of the roof where water is likely to leak inside. This targeted dose of cold air will freeze the water in its tracks and stop the flow of water. Invest in an aluminum roof rake and remove snow immediately before it begins to build up on the roof. Another trick is to use a pair of panty hose filled with calcium chloride/ ice melter placed on the roof so it crosses the ice dam and overhangs the gutter. This will create a channel for water to flow down into the gutters and off the roof. 

     Unfortunately we can’t prevent storms from happening so when you need emergency help because of storm damage, call SERVPRO Framingham or SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley. Our 24 hour service is specialized and ready to come to you for cleanup and restoration of either residential or commercial property. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a storm, a fire or have smoke or water damage, give us a call. We know catastrophes don’t always happen conveniently during business hours so we are available 24/7.

    We are also ready to help when you need to mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. The main goal of SERVPRO of Framingham and Newton/Wellesley is to help minimize the interruption to your life and as quickly as possible make it "like it never even happened."