Ice Buildup On Roof Edge

This is the only safe way to remove snow from a roof.

Ice buildup on roof edge.

Repeat the process after every snowfall to keep the roof clear of ice dams. Ice dams are those beautiful but deadly mounds of ice and icicles that you see along the edge of some roofs. Ice dams and icicles form when the snow melts runs down your roof and refreezes near the edge. Purchase a long handled aluminum roof rake preferably with wheels or a non stick graphite blade.

The ice belt can be installed either directly over your shingles not recommended or by removing several rows of shingles along the eaves installing synthetic underlayment or ice shield and then. When using roof rake use light pressure to avoid scraping the shingles too hard. It will put gutters and downspouts at risk too. An ice pick or awl is best for this task though a crowbar or hatchet can work too.

We say they are deadly because sheets of ice start to break loose as the weather gets a little warmer stabbing or crushing anything in its path. Standing on a stabilized ladder or other sturdy object reach into the gutter and chip away at the ice buildup starting at the gutter and working backward up the roof being careful not to damage the roof itself. To use the rake pull the snow toward the edge of your roof. Ice dams are a common sight in northern new england winters and home partners has dealt with quite a few.

Never get onto a roof to remove snow in the winter. Stop ice dams with a cold roof. An ice dam is a hump of ice that forms at the edge of a roof under certain wintertime conditions. An ice dam can damage both your roof and the inside of your home.

If you push the snow across the roof you could end up damaging the shingles. 4 ways to prevent ice dams on your roof. Ask this old house general contractor tom silva explains the best ways to keep your roof and gutters free from those dreaded ice dams. You don t have to remove all of the ice.

See below for a shopp. This scenario is often the result of a warm attic.