Roofing resources
Understanding ice dams and winter leaks
Learn how ice buildup, attic conditions, and roof-edge details can contribute to winter leaks. Explore signs to watch for and the roofing improvements that may be considered after an assessment.
Discuss your projectIn short
What is ice dams?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice at the gutter. Heat in the attic melts snow higher on the roof; that water refreezes at the cold eave and backs up under the shingles. Do not chip the ice from a ladder. We inspect from the ground and the attic when we can.
What to consider
Roofing, insulation, ventilation, and drainage can all affect ice-dam conditions. Understanding the contributing factors helps develop a coordinated repair and prevention plan.
Local considerations
Eden Prairie and the Twin Cities see the classic thick ridge at the eave. Naperville and Chesterfield see shorter events after ice storms. Chipping from a ladder breaks shingles and sends people to the emergency room. We write a repair, ice-barrier, or ventilation plan—not a promise that ice will never return.
Start here
Start with the recommended guide below, then explore related services and answers for your property.
Pages in this topic
- Ice dams at the eaves · problem
- Ice-dam service · service
- Ice-backed gutters · problem
- Gutters · service
- Minnesota roofing · page
- How ice differs from hail and wind · guide
Explore related guides
Related: All topics · Homeowner guides.
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