Understanding Ice Dams

Ice dams are a winter hazard often seen in regions like Chicago and Northwest Indiana, where freezing temperatures and heavy snow are common. These icy ridges form along the edges of roofs, and while they might seem like just another winter nuisance, they can lead to costly problems if ignored.

How Do Ice Dams Form?

Ice dams develop due to temperature differences across the roof. Warm air escaping from the building heats the upper part of the roof, causing the snow to melt. As the melted water flows down to the colder eaves, it refreezes, forming a barrier of ice. This buildup eventually blocks water from draining properly, which can force it under the roofing materials and into the building.

Common Causes

Several factors contribute to ice dam formation, particularly during harsh Midwest winters:

• Heat Escaping from the Building: Poor insulation allows warm air from inside to escape into the attic, heating the roof unevenly and causing snow to melt prematurely.
• Inconsistent Roof Temperatures: A lack of ventilation in the attic creates temperature differences across the roof, encouraging the freeze-thaw cycle.
• Gutter Problems: Blocked gutters can trap water that freezes into ice, worsening the problem along roof edges.
• Heavy Snowfall: Thick layers of snow provide a constant supply of water as they melt, increasing the likelihood of dams forming.

Why Ice Dams Are a Problem

Ice dams aren’t just an inconvenience—they can cause expensive damage to your roof and building.

Water Leaks

Melted water trapped behind an ice dam can seep under the shingles, making its way into the building. This can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and anything stored inside.

Roof Damage

The weight of the ice can strain your roof, loosen shingles, or crack roofing materials. Over time, this can lead to more extensive repairs.

Safety Concerns

Falling icicles or chunks of ice are a serious hazard. They can hurt people walking nearby or damage property below.

How to Prevent Ice Dams

Preventing ice dams requires proactive steps to manage heat loss and water flow:

• Add Attic Insulation: Proper insulation keeps warm air inside the building, preventing the roof from heating up and melting snow too quickly.
• Install Ventilation Systems: Ridge vents or soffit vents improve airflow, keeping your roof at a consistent, cooler temperature.
• Clear Snow Regularly: Removing snow from the roof after heavy storms reduces the amount of water that can refreeze. Consider using roof rakes for safe snow removal.
• Maintain Your Gutters: Clean gutters and downspouts before winter to ensure water drains freely, preventing backups that can freeze into ice dams.

Why This Matters Right Now

Winter in Chicago and Northwest Indiana can be brutal, with recent temperatures hovering below freezing. Snow and ice are piling up, making ice dams a real concern for many commercial buildings. Addressing the issue now can save you time, money, and stress later in the season.

Choose Great Lakes Roofing for Your Ice Dam Solutions

If you’re worried about ice dams or need help protecting your roof this winter, Great Lakes Roofing is here for you. With years of experience serving Chicago and Northwest Indiana, we understand the unique challenges of this region’s winters. Whether it’s preventative maintenance or emergency repairs, our team has the expertise to get the job done right.

Don’t let ice dams cause costly damage to your commercial property. Contact Great Lakes Roofing today for a free estimate of how we can help keep your building safe all winter long.