With winters like we experience in Wisconsin, it is not uncommon for the weather to take its toll on our homes. One of the more common problems that can occur after a snowfall is the development of ice dams. Ice dams are build-ups of ice and the formation of icicles on eaves and other possible areas of your roof. While ice dams and icicles may be pretty to look at, they wreak havoc on homes, causing water damage in sidewalls and attics.

WHAT CAUSES ICE DAMS
Ice dams are formed when heat from the inside of a home escapes into the attic and warms the roof decking. This heat, combined with heat from the sun, can melt snow on the roof. Snow then melts at the upper roof and in the valleys, then runs down toward the eaves as water. When it reaches the cold eaves and gutters it refreezes. The continual thaw and re-freeze process creates ice dams. The result is water backing up under the roof shingles or behind fascia boards where it can soak through the roof decking or wall sheathing, causing water damage to ceilings or walls.

ICE DAM DEFENSE
There are three ways to defend against damage that can be caused by ice dams: insulation, ventilation and waterproofing shingle underlayment. All are interrelated. Insulation keeps heat escaping from your home’s living space into your attic. Ventilation removes the heat and helps keep the roof deck evenly cool to help prevent snow from melting on the roof. Lastly, waterproofing shingle underlayment, which is often called ice and water shield, is an asphalt sheet that is laid before the shingles are applied. It protects the interior against leaks that do form on the roof.