HOW TO BATTLE ICE DAMMING IN THE WINTER

WHAT IS ICE DAMMING:

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. It occurs when heat leaks from the house, melting snow on upper roof sections, which then refreezes on colder eaves. This trapped water can back up under shingles, causing leaks and structural damage.

Gutters and soffits battle ice damming by regulating roof temperature and managing water flow, preventing snow from melting and refreezing at the eaves. Proper soffit ventilation keeps the roof edge cold, while clean gutters, guards, and heating cables ensure meltwater drains away rather than forming dangerous ice dams.

How to Use Soffits and Gutters to Prevent Ice Dams:

• Install/Clear Soffit Vents: Continuous soffit vents, paired with ridge vents, circulate cold air under the roof deck to prevent the eaves from warming up and melting snow.

• Use Air Pathway Baffles: Ensure insulation does not block soffit vents by installing baffles (rafter vents), which allow cold air to travel from the soffit up the roof deck.

• Keep Gutters Clear: Clean gutters and downspouts before winter to ensure free drainage. Ice forms when debris blocks water, allowing it to freeze in the eavestrough.

• Install Gutter Guards: Debris-free gutters reduce the chance of water backing up. At CRS Aluminum our continuous hangar systems help prevent clogging and increases the strength of your gutters to handle the weight from snow and ice build up ensuring proper water flow all year round.