Over the past few weeks, the phones at Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning® have been ringing off the hook with customers that have water damage caused by ice dams. While it is a common assumption that ice dams and icicles are caused by dirty or malfunctioning gutters, the truth is that icicles and ice dams can occur whether gutters are clean or dirty, properly installed or completely off pitch.
For those of us who live in the Northeastern region of the United States, it is common for thick bands of ice to form along the eaves of our homes during snowy conditions. These bands of ice form as the result of temperature differentials (inside your attic compared to outside) and improper ventilation or insulation that causes snow to melt and run down to the edge of your roof, where it collects and refreezes into a solid block of ice. The ice mass is referred to as an ice dam because it traps water melting from the warm roof behind it and pushes the meltwater back up and under the roof’s shingles. This action may cause meltwater to penetrate the walls or attic of a home, resulting in interior damage. Depending on the amount of snow on your roof, this process continues and causes expensive repairs.
The illustration above is a prime example of a classic ice dam scenario. Not only is the snow melting from escaping heat but this section of roof receives direct sunlight also causing the snow to melt.
Damage from ice dams may not be readily apparent. It exists in the form of mold and peeling paint. More costly damage occurs when insulation becomes wet as it loses its ability to function.
The best way to break up an ice dam and prevent water damage is to remove the entire gutter where the dam is formed. Although it is a drastic measure, it will help alleviate the situation. At Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning®, we charge $495 for the first gutter and $175 for each additional gutter that requires removal. This price does not include installation of any new gutters.
Image courtesy of roofingspecialists.ca
