An ice dam is what is called a ridge of ice at the edge of a roof, which may form in the cold season and cause different problems by preventing the snow from draining off, or by clogging the gutters and downspouts.
Ice dams are a big concern for commercial and residential building owners, because they may cause water leaks and infiltrations that damage the insulation, ceilings, walls and even the structure of the roof.
There are several causes for ice dam formation. Typically, the snow layer accumulated on the roof, the temperature outdoors and heat loss from the building – they all interact to form ice dams. Snow melts on different areas of the roof and then freezes again when it reaches the colder edges or the pluvial system. Ice dams can grow in thickness, if the weather stays below freezing level or if the building owner does nothing to remove them.
The heat source that warms parts of the roof and determines the snow to start melting can come from the sun or from the house. If the roof is not properly insulated and ventilated, this problem will occur frequently.
Preventing ice dams should be made by controlling the heat loss from the building and also by installing a de-icing system. Contact a recommended Fort Collins roofing company for roof snow and ice removal to prevent possible roof damage and water damage to your home.