Homeowners can act now to help prevent ice dams and costly water damage to ceilings and walls. Ice dams can happen when there is warm air in the attic, snow on the roof, and the right weather conditions. When heat leaks into the attic, it melts the underside of the snow on the roof.
The melted snow flows down the roof until it reaches a cold spot (such as the eaves) where it forms a frozen dam. The ice buildup can back up under the shingles, damaging the roof and allowing water to leak to the ceilings and walls below.
Wires, plumbing vents, light fixtures, chimneys, and knee walls leading into the attic are all potential for air leaks. Inadequate insulation, especially near the eaves, can also contribute to the problem. To avoid ice dams, attic air leaks must be sealed with caulking or expanding spray foam, and attic insulation should be installed to a minimum R-50, as space allows.
A first step to solving ice dams — and to making your home more energy efficient — is to have an advanced energy assessment. The assessment will use equipment including infrared cameras to identify those attic air leaks and will offer action steps to prevent ice dams. Advanced energy audits can be facilitated by your gas or electric utility. Once the problem areas are detected, get bids from at least two licensed contractors and have the work done.
The Division of Energy Resources (DER) offers a fact sheet on ice dams called “Solving Ice Dams.” For more information on ice dams and ways to conserve energy in your home, check out the “Home Envelope” energy guide (pages 10-11).
This information was provided by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources.
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