Though they may appear picturesque, ice dams are a destructive nemesis causing thousands in damage. By learning the science on how they are formed, you will easily avoid these winter roof hazards.
Heat creates the problem. During the winter, ice dams can form as heat escapes from your home into the attic causing uneven warming of the roof surface. The top of the roof is warm enough that snow melts then freezes as it flows down to a cold eave, where an ice dam forms.
Water finds a way. Water pools behind the ice barrier with nowhere else to drain as more snow melts. This trapped water will eventually make its way underneath roof tiles and into your home, resulting in ceiling stains, wall damage and insulation troubles. For Roofers Portsmouth, contact https://www.randsroofing.co.uk/roofing-services/roofers-portsmouth/
Poor insulation fuels the cycle. Missed or insufficient insulation in the attic provides a path for indoor heat to rise, and poor air sealing allows warm air migration into roof compartments. This allows the temperature difference that leads to ice dams forming.
Prevention targets the root cause. Insulation that insulates heat in your living spaces, combined with excellent ventilation to ensure the roof temperature remains consistent. Light fixtures, pipes or access hatches should be well sealed so they do not allow warm air to reach roof surfaces.
Professional solutions work best. Prevention is key and this involves a balanced system of installing ridge vents, soffit vents along with adequate insulation. Heat cables are a temporary fix and do not address the root of your issue.
Act before winter arrives. Prevent ice dams months before they happen and when the cost is lower in warmer weather due to less risk of roof work injury.
