Before digging into the signs and symptoms of having ice dams, it is important that people understand exactly what they are. An ice dam is a barrier of ice that forms on the edge of a roof which in effect prohibits any water from draining off the roof. The water then builds up and can result in home leakage which then can cause damage to your walls, ceilings, insulation and more.

Ice dam removal is very dangerous, so we often suggest hiring a professional. With wet, cold and snowy conditions, inexperienced people can see themselves slip and fall from dangerous heights. If you are suspicious that you indeed have an ice dam problem, there are some things you can check before reaching out to a professional.

Leaking: If you notice any water leaking into your home, it can be generally visible from the ceiling, window trim, or top of bay windows.

Icicles: With no visible leakage within your home, these Icicles will be on the seams-joints in siding.

Icicles or dripping from the soffit: Water dripping or icicles hanging from your exterior soffit is a bad sign. This will often occur without any visible leaks inside.

If you don’t have any of the signs above, there is a good chance that you don’t have an ice dams. If you notice either of these issues, reach out to a roofing professional.

For any further information about Ice Dams and this upcoming winter, please feel free to give us a call at 401-255-2003 or fill out our online contact form.