Ice dams threaten any roof in the Midwest with the fluctuation of temperatures. When warm air in your attic causes snow and ice on your roof to melt too quickly, the water runs down the cold eaves towards the gutters, refreezing into an ice dam or icicles. And any unwanted moisture entering the home can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
How do ice dams form on your roof?
Since most ice dams form at the roof's edge, a heat source must warm the roof elsewhere. This heat primarily comes from the house, transfers to the attic space, and warms the roof. This primary heat transfer mode in many homes leads to ice dam formation. Other sources of heat in the attic space include chimneys. In addition, frequent use of wood stoves and fireplaces allows heat to transfer to the attic. Finally, a heat source will also be inadequately insulated or leaky duct work in the attic space.
What can I do about ice dams?
Here's what you can do. First, remove excess snow from your roof; a roof rake makes this easy; this eliminates the problem before it even starts. Ultimately making the ceiling airtight so warm air cannot move into the attic space is the goal. Then, after sealing air leakage paths between the house and attic space, consider increasing the ceiling or roof insulation to reduce heat loss.
Ken-Z Roofing can resolve this issue!
At Ken-Z Roofing, our job includes weatherization to help eliminate heat transfer problems that create ice dams. Ken-Z Roofing is family-owned, operated in Rockford, IL, and is just a phone call away. With 30+ years in the roofing industry in the Northern Illinois area, whatever your roofing needs, we are your local, professional roofing contractor you can TRUST.
Now is the time to get your FREE 12-point roof inspection and estimate! Call Ken-Z and be worry-free at 815-395-8244.
Ken-Z Roofing is family-owned and operated in Rockford and is just a phone call away. With 30+ years in the roofing industry in the Northern Illinois area, whatever your roofing needs, we are your local, professional roofing contractor you can TRUST. Call us today for your FREE 12-point roof inspection: 815-395-8244. Be worry-free with Ken-Z!