We may be experiencing a few days of warm weather right now, but winter is far from over. Here in Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, there are bound to still be a few snow and ice storms headed our way. One of the main issues these Nor’Easters can cause are ice dams on your roof. Ice dams are a buildup of snow and/or ice on your roof which in turn weakens the underlying roofing shingles, causing loose shingles and moisture problems. At Bay State Exteriors, we’re here to make sure your roof is ready to prevent these ice dams from forming.

Preventing Ice Dams on a Roof

• Ventilated Attic. A properly ventilated attic is one of the key components to preventing ice dams. If it’s well ventilated, then the attic can stay cold and prevent heat from escaping from the roof which in turn melts the snow and creates a dam.
• Clean Gutters. At Bay State Exteriors, we provide gutter repair and installation services. Gutters may seem insignificant, but if they’re clear of leaves, twigs and other debris before winter, they can help remove runoff water from the roof and away from your home before it freezes and causes an ice dam.
• Create a Barrier. If your home has any uninsulated openings that lead to the attic, such as an access hatch or bathroom ceiling vent, it’s best to cover these with foil in order to create a barrier. The foil will prevent any of the hot air from the bathroom or elsewhere in the house from rising into the attic and heating the roof.
• Remove Snow. As a professional roofing company in Peabody, we provide roofing service all year round — including snow and ice removal. After any large storm, we recommend contacting a roofer to remove the snow from your roof before it freezes.
• Install a Water-Repellent Membrane. Before winter arrives (or during a warm spell), contact our professional roofers for a water-repellent roof membrane. This layer adds another barrier of protection for your home. If your shingles do end up peeling or falling off altogether, this membrane will prevent extensive water damage.
• Install a Rubber Roof. Similar to the membrane, rubber roofs are a great, affordable option for homeowners who don’t have steeply sloped roofs. Roofs on a lower pitch tend to generate ice dams more frequently than homes with steep roofs. In order to combat the potential damage of ice dams, a rubber roof is the perfect option.

Worried about ice dams this winter or have you noticed that your roof has already been damaged by an ice dam? Contact our Peabody roofers today for a free project estimate.