How to Prevent Ice Dams This Winter

With the winter season quickly approaching, making sure your roof is ready for the colder temperatures might be the last thing on your mind. Roofers in Westchester County can tell you that ice dams can ruin your roof and your finances if you aren’t careful. Thankfully, there are measures you can take to prevent the damage caused by freezing, thawing and refreezing snow and ice that build up on your roof.

Make Sure Your Roof Is Well-Ventilated

You’ll want to make sure you keep heat out of your attic so it doesn’t contribute to the freezing-thawing ice dam cycle. Have a professional come take a look at your roof and your current ventilation to ensure everything is in good order.

Block Up Air Leaks in Your Roof

While roofers in Westchester County are checking your ventilation, make sure they also look to see whether you have any air leaks that need to be plugged to keep warmed air from escaping. Not only is plugging up leaks good for keeping ice dams off your roof, they also boost your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Use a Roof Rake

While you’re making your shopping list for the upcoming holiday season, don’t forget to add a roof rake. Roof rakes are designed to unload heavy snow buildup from your roof, which can be done with both feet on the floor. Rakes also have the added benefit of relieving the stress of extra weight from your roof.

 Think About Installing Heat Cables

Heat cables make for a great investment for ice dam prevention. You can install them yourself or have roofers in Westchester County take care of the job for you. As their name implies, heat cables melt snow and let it trickle off your roof like rainwater. Just make sure you have a way to reroute all the meltwater away from your roof so it doesn’t refreeze when you turn the cables off.

For more tips on handling ice dams, get in touch with us here at Signature Exteriors by calling 1-866-244-8029.