Ice Dams 101: How to Prevent and Fix This Common Winter Roofing Issue
Winter in Central Oregon brings snow-covered landscapes, but it also brings one of the biggest headaches for homeowners—ice dams. These thick ridges of ice that form along your roof’s edge can cause serious damage if left unchecked. In this guide, we’ll break down what causes ice dams, how they impact your home, and most importantly, how to prevent and remove them.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Ice dams form when heat from your home escapes through the roof, melting the snow that is sitting on top. As the melted snow runs down the roof, it reaches the colder edges and refreezes, creating a barrier of ice. This process repeats, building up layers of ice that trap additional melting snow. With nowhere to go, the water can seep under shingles, leading to leaks, mold, and structural damage.
How Ice Dams Can Damage Your Home
If an ice dam forms and remains untreated, it can cause:
Roof leaks – Water backs up under shingles, leading to moisture damage inside your home.
Gutter damage – The weight of the ice can pull gutters away from the roofline.
Insulation issues – Wet insulation loses its effectiveness, increasing energy costs.
Mold and mildew – Persistent moisture can create the perfect conditions for mold growth.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
The best way to deal with ice dams is to stop them before they start. Here’s how:
Improve Attic Insulation & Ventilation
Proper insulation keeps warm air inside your home and prevents uneven roof temperatures.
Good ventilation allows cold air to circulate, maintaining an even roof temperature.
Remove Snow Before It Becomes a Problem
Regularly clearing snow from your roof can help prevent melting and refreezing.
Use a roof rake (a long-handled tool designed to pull snow off safely) after heavy snowfalls.
Seal Air Leaks
Check for gaps around light fixtures, vents, and chimneys where warm air may escape into the attic.
Sealing these leaks helps maintain a consistent roof temperature.
What to Do If an Ice Dam Forms
If you already have an ice dam, don’t try to chip it away with a hammer or shovel—this can cause more harm than good. Instead, start by safely removing as much snow as possible from the roof’s edge using a roof rake. To help melt the ice, place a nylon stocking filled with calcium chloride ice melt perpendicular to the ice dam to create a channel for water to drain. Avoid using rock salt, as it can damage your roof. If the ice dam is large or causing leaks, it’s best to call a professional like Greenlee Roofing for safe and effective removal.
Need Help with Ice Dams?
We understand the challenges that winter brings to homes in Bend and throughout Central Oregon. If you’re dealing with ice dams or want to take steps to prevent them, our team is here to help. Don’t wait until warmer weather—address the issue now to protect your home.
📞 Contact us today for professional roofing and winter maintenance solutions!
