Ice Dams: How They Form and the Damage They Cause

Ice dams start with a warm attic. Heat escapes through your ceiling, warming the roof above the living space and melting snow there. The meltwater runs down the slope until it hits the colder eaves, where it freezes into a ridge of ice.

As more snow melts, the ice ridge grows, acting like a dam. Water pools behind it and can seep under shingles. The cycle repeats with each freeze and thaw, increasing the risk of leaks. Poor attic insulation and ventilation make this process more likely.

Prevention focuses on keeping your roof cold. Improving attic insulation and ventilation helps stop heat from escaping and melting snow. Sealing air leaks around vents, chimneys, and light fixtures also reduces warm air flow into the attic.

After a heavy snowfall, you can carefully remove snow from the lower roof edges using a roof rake. This reduces the snow available to melt and refreeze. In Kirkland, where wet snow can be heavy, taking action early can prevent problems. Always prioritize your safety when working on a ladder.

If water has soaked into your walls, ceilings, or insulation, you may need professional water damage help. The pros use specialized equipment to dry hidden moisture and prevent mold growth. They can also assess the extent of the damage and guide you on next steps.

Don't wait if you see significant leaks, sagging drywall, or large areas of wet insulation. Water damage can worsen quickly. If you live in Kirkland, keep your emergency contacts handy. For thorough drying and structural assessment, consider contacting local water damage pros.