Central Illinois is known for extreme weather conditions in the colder months. As temperatures vary, it’s possible for water and snow to turn to ice on your exterior surfaces overnight. If you notice icicles along your gutters, window frames, or the lower edge of your roof, you may be experiencing ice damming. Ice dams can cause serious harm to your roofing system and need to be examined by professional roofers to prevent further damage. At Sutton’s, our home improvement experts specialize in roof replacement and tear-off services to prevent ice damming and other decay. Our blog discusses the cause of ice damming and how to protect your home from harsh weather for decades. Keep reading, or give us a call to schedule a roof inspection in Springfield, IL.
What is Ice Damming & What Causes It?
Ice damming is something that happens when water from melting snow flows down the surface of your roof and refreezes, turning into thick layers of ice. As this process repeats, ice builds up, creating a “dam” that eventually pools water under your shingles and in your gutters. While this may not seem like a major issue right away, when left to build up, the ice and water can destroy the outer walls beneath your shingles, causing mold and water damage to your home. Unfortunately, there are several instances in which your roof could create the perfect environment for ice damming, including insufficient insulation in your walls and attic, air leakage, pot lights, and even ventilation equipment in your attic. Sutton’s in Springfield, IL helps prevent ice damming by installing GAF WeatherWatch® Ice & Water Leak Barrier beneath your roof’s shingles for maximum protection in the winter.
How to Know if You Have an Ice Dam Problem
Hanging icicles aren’t the only signs that ice damming is occurring on your roof. In fact, water or moisture stains on the ceiling of your attic or exterior walls could be signs that water has penetrated through your roof’s membrane. These issues occur when water cannot drain properly in your gutters and there is uneven insulation in your attic and beneath your shingles. Sutton’s in Springfield, IL recommends examining the exterior of your home to spot any water spots or hanging icicles that could indicate ice dams have formed on your roof. If you’re concerned with the safety of your roofing system, contact our home improvement experts at 217.528.3911, and we’ll schedule a roof inspection and
Ice Dam Protection & Prevention
Now that you know the dangers that ice dams pose on your roof, the next step is to protect your home with high-quality products. At Sutton’s, we install ice and water shields at least two feet past the warm wall, underneath your roof’s shingles, that protect against moisture. When snow is left to melt and refreeze, layers of ice can build up in your gutters and at the edge of your roofing system, pushing its way under your shingles and harming your roof deck. When our ice and water shields are installed correctly, moisture from ice dams is less likely to threaten your home and roof. With every roof installation and replacement service, our roofers install waterproof membranes to keep your property safe and prevent future repairs caused by ice or water damage. Learn more about our ice and water shields when you request an estimate on a roofing project in Springfield, IL.
Eliminate Air Leakage & Heat Loss
When ice dams form, it is likely due to improper insulation, venting, or air leakage from your roofing system. Issues such ad poorly sealed pot lights, improper attic ventilation, and a lack of venting in your soffits are prime causes of ice damming that can be prevented. During our new construction or roofing replacement services, our skilled team of roofers double-checks every possible space that could produce air leaks while laying ice and water shields and your shingles. Sutton’s has provided high-quality roofing services to homes in Springfield, IL, since 1946, making us the #1 choice for residential roof tear-offs and installation. If you believe that your roof is experiencing air leaks or heat loss, or you notice water damage on the exterior of your home, contact our team immediately for an inspection.
