Here in Park Hills, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to notice ridges of ice forming along their roofs’ edges in the winter. These are known as ice dams. Though they are often dismissed as an unavoidable byproduct of snow and other winter precipitation, ice dams are usually a sign that your home has poor attic insulation, and they can cause significant damage if ignored.
Just what causes ice dams and how can better attic insulation and air sealing help? Let’s dive in.
What Are Ice Dams and Why Are They a Problem?
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form along the edges of roofs during the winter, and they are primarily caused by heat escaping through a home’s attic.
Though they may look like harmless icicles, ice dams can cause many problems for homeowners. When ice dams form, water often gets trapped behind them, which can then seep under your shingles and into your roof deck. This can lead to leaks and even damage to the interior of your home. In cases where ice dams get especially large, the weight of the ice can stress your roof’s structure, potentially causing damage or collapse in extreme cases.
How Poor Attic Insulation Can Cause Ice Dams
Since ice dams are caused by heat escaping through your attic’s roof, they are usually a sign of faulty insulation and/or air sealing in your Park Hills home. When your attic lacks proper insulation, heat from inside escapes into (and often, out of) the attic, warming the roof and causing snow to melt. This melted snow then flows down the roof and refreezes at the colder eaves, forming ice dams.
Proper insulation and air sealing play a critical role in preventing ice dams. High-quality insulation prevents heat transfer to the attic and roof, thus keeping the roof temperature consistent and preventing snowmelt. Additionally, sealing air leaks further reduces heat loss, ensuring the roof remains cold enough to prevent snowmelt from refreezing and forming ice dams.
Preventing Ice Dams with Insulation and Air Sealing Upgrades
If you’ve been dealing with ice dams on your home in the winter, upgrading your home’s attic insulation and air sealing can help prevent damage, improve home comfort, and lead to significant cost and energy savings.
Thanks to the insulation tax credit, officially known as the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, you can save up to $1,200 on these home upgrades. Get in touch with our team at Ozark’s Modern Insulation today to learn more!
Ready to rid your home of ice dams and ensure year-round comfort? Let the team at Ozark’s Modern Insulation help you upgrade your insulation and save up to $1,200 in tax credits! Call (573) 431-2707 or contact us online to learn more.