Ice dams are a common problem many people face living in the mountain communities of Northern Utah. Ice dams occur mainly because of heat escaping a warm home and melting snow on the roof. The melted snow then runs down the roof and freezes when it reaches a portion of the roof that is below freezing. This is usually an eve. North facing or shaded roofs are more problematic then south facing roofs. As the melted snow re-freezes on the eve, it begins to build up, causing a dam. If the dam gets deep enough, it can hold standing water that will work its way up between shingles and above the ice/water shield causing water damage to the inside of the home.
Many people have no idea that they have any problems of ice or snow buildup on their home. There are several things you can look for in order to identify the problem areas of ice buildup. Gutter deformation is one of the easiest identifiers in seeing where the ice will build up. Also looking for icicles or ice forming on the eve. During warmer months, signs of ice/water will usually be a white powder like build up on the wall. In more serious cases, the wall will begin to deteriorate and fall apart.
Heat tape is a good solution to prevent ice dams from forming and thus protecting the home from water damage. The purpose of heat tape is to prevent melt water from entering the home or building. When ice builds up on the roof, heat tape will allow any melt water from the upper part of the roof to pass through any ice and snow and make its way through the gutter and spouts to the ground. There are various types of heat tape available and different costs associated with installing heat tape.
For more information contact Peterson Builders
Call us! 801-745-3573
Send an email to pbi@petersonbuilders.com
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