What an ice dam really is
Warm attic air melts snow on the upper roof. Water runs down to the cold overhang, freezes, and builds a ridge of ice. More meltwater then backs up under the shingles and into the home.
Chopping ice off the edge can damage shingles and gutters. Prevention beats reactive removal every time.
Insulation and air sealing come first
Most ice dams start with heat leaking into the attic from recessed lights, hatches, and poor insulation. Sealing and adding insulation keeps the roof deck colder so snow stays put until outdoor thaw.
This is often an attic project as much as a roofing project. We flag attic issues during inspections so you are not treating only the symptom.
Ventilation and ice and water shield
Balanced intake and exhaust ventilation helps keep deck temperatures even. On replacements in our climate, we install ice and water shield at eaves, valleys, and key penetrations as standard practice.
That membrane will not stop every dam on a badly heated attic, but it greatly reduces interior damage when meltwater backs up.
Gutters, heat cables, and when to call us
Clear eavestroughs before freeze-up so water can leave the roof edge. Heat cables are a last resort on problem eaves, not a substitute for insulation.
If you already have staining at exterior walls or interior ceilings each winter, book an inspection. Keen Roofing can assess the roof, attic, and drainage together.
