Snowmen, snowball fights, snow forts, and hitting off icicles are common winter activities for children in the Midwest. The outdoor fun can be thrilling and great activities during recess time at school. Typically, these activities are harmless and just kids having fun.
Many artists create lovely paintings of winter scenes displaying these activities. We tend to get warm fuzzy feelings from looking at pictures of cozy homes with a fireplace, soft blankets wrapped over chairs, and icicles dangling outside.
We don’t think much about those icicles in our homes. We tend to view them as regular winter accessories. Is that how we should view them though?
Icicles are actually a sign of potential ice dams forming on the roof.
What are ice dams?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents water and snow from draining off. As temperatures vary, the snow will melt and then refreeze at night. This water will back up, freeze, and create a barrier. Unfortunately, it can leak into the home creating damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and floors of your attic and home.
How Can Ice Dams Be Eliminated?
Snow Rake
Ice dams can form quickly, so be aware of the amount on your roof after a big winter storm. By removing excess snow from your roof, the possibility of melting snow is reduced. A snow rake is a useful tool for excess snow removal on first-floor homes. It is a long-handled aluminum pole attached to a wide blade. By extending the rake on the roof, and gently pulling toward the edge, the excess snow can be removed safely.
There are some cautions to a snow rake.
- Never use a snow rake while on a ladder. You could lose your balance and injury yourself.
- Do not use a snow rake for second-story homes. A snow rake is only intended for first-level homes.
- Dress warmly when working outside. Wear a hat, gloves, coat, and boots for warmth.
- Only pull gently. A harsh drag across the roof can damage shingles.
- Be aware of your footing when using a snow rake. The excess snow can cause you to lose balance.
If you have concerns about snow removal from your roof, ask a professional to assist you. A professional roofing company, like Prominent Construction in Minneapolis, is available to help you with all of your roofing needs. We are insured, use safe practices, and understand the dangers of snow removal.
Keep Gutters Clean
Many times when a gutter is clogged, the melting water has no place to go. It simply spills over the edge of the gutter, creating added weight when it freezes. The frozen water can also further damage any fasteners the gutters have. It is best to clean out your gutters before winter hits, removing all leaves, branches, and excess debris.
Again, if you have concerns about cleaning your gutters and keeping them in tip-top shape, contact a professional to assist you.
Prominent Construction understands the complexity of keeping a roof system working at peak performance. We have a wide range of services available including storm damage, roof replacement, and roof repair. We make sure our customers are taken care of as if they are family. We are committed to our goal of “Building With Excellence” and take that seriously.
Hire a roofing team you can trust! Call today for a free roof inspection!
