Ice damming is a particularly bothersome aspect of living in a climate that experiences harsh winters. The dams occur when moisture builds up in gutters and freezes. The gutters are unable to function properly and damming begins. This can lead to leaks occurring inside of your home. It can also back up water under the shingles and into the attic, which can eventually result in mold. Roofers can help you prevent damming and help you protect your patio enclosures. There are also a few steps you can take on your own to prevent problems from occurring.

The only way to fix a dam is to remove the barrier that has been created. This means you need to get rid of the ice that has built up around the gutter before it begins to melt. Working on a dam is a dangerous job because you have to get up onto the area with a ladder. During the winter months, this is extremely dangerous, even for trained professionals. Consider whether the risk is worth it before handling the problem. If there is no leaking yet, it might be better to wait until the conditions around your home improve. You can also call on a professional to handle the job. Also remember if you do not know what you are doing, you can cause additional damage to the area. Banging away at a dam can collapse your gutter system or rip shingles off the area, so work carefully if you choose to take on the project by yourself.

It is always better to prevent damming from occurring, instead of dealing with it once it has become a problem. To avoid damming from occurring, it is good idea to keep the area well-ventilated. Make sure your attic space has sufficient exhaust outlets and that the airflow is moving well through the space. This prevents heat from building up in the space and creating a significant difference between the indoor temperature and outside.

Dams can also be prevented with impermeable membranes. The membranes are installed on top of other materials and create a water and ice shield. They are usually installed around the eaves, the dormers, and the valley areas. These are the spots most frequently affected by damming. They prevent water from entering the home, even when melting begins.

Electrical heat tape is another option. This is installed in the gutter system and sometimes on the lower parts of the surface area to melt the ice before damming begins. This is a bigger job, but it puts your mind at ease all winter long because you know the gutter will be warm enough for dams not to form. Homes with open and cathedral ceilings might want to install a fan near the peak to push the warmer air away from these areas. With no attic, you can take measures inside of your home to prevent damming problems. Keeping the warm are away from the dams will prevent the melting and moisture from occurring. Remember, you are responsible for protecting your home from the climate it is located in.Ellie Lewis has called on the expertise of Dayton roofers for a home remodel she and her husband are doing. She hired Dayton patio enclosures experts to update their sunroom.

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Author Bio: Ellie Lewis has called on the expertise of Dayton roofers for a home remodel she and her husband are doing. She hired Dayton patio enclosures experts to update their sunroom.

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