Winter in Canada paints a beautiful picture—but for homeowners, that picture sometimes includes a hidden threat: ice dams.
These ridges of ice form along the edges of your roof, blocking melting snow from draining properly. When that trapped water has nowhere to go, it can seep under shingles, leading to leaks, rot, and costly interior damage.
If you’ve ever struggled to prevent ice dams or roof leaks, this guide is for you. Let’s explore how to prevent ice dams on roof surfaces by understanding what causes them—and how to stop them before they start.
Understanding What Causes Ice Dams
An ice dam forms because of uneven roof temperatures. Here’s how the process unfolds:
- Heat Loss: Warm air from your living space seeps into the attic, heating the underside of your roof.
- Snow Melt: That heat melts the snow on the upper sections of your roof.
- Refreeze: The water runs down toward the colder eaves (the unheated overhangs) and refreezes, forming a solid ridge of ice.
- Water Backup: As melting continues, water pools behind the ice dam, seeping under shingles and into your home.
Left unchecked, ice dams can cause extensive roof damage, sagging gutters, warped decking, and even mold growth inside walls and ceilings.
3 Proven Steps to Prevent Ice Dams and Roof Leaks
The key to prevention is keeping your roof deck cold so it stays the same temperature as the outdoor air. This comes down to three essentials: insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
1. Boost Your Attic Insulation
Proper insulation prevents ice dams on roofs by keeping warm indoor air from reaching your attic and heating your roof.
Seal Air Leaks
Before adding insulation, seal any gaps that allow air to escape. Common trouble spots include:
- Around recessed light fixtures
- Electrical or plumbing penetrations
- Attic hatches or pull-down stairs
- Bath fan vents and chimneys (ensure these vent outside, not into the attic)
Check Your Insulation Depth
In most Canadian climates, an R-value of R-50 to R-60 is ideal. If you can see your ceiling joists, you likely need more insulation.
2. Improve Attic Ventilation
Even with good insulation, long-term prevention starts with proper roof ventilation. When it’s time to replace or service your roof, the team at A. Clark Roofing &Siding can assess your attic’s airflow and insulation to reduce heat loss—helping to prevent ice dams from forming in the first place.
A balanced system typically includes:
- Soffit (Intake) Vents: Located under your eaves, they bring in cool, fresh air.
- Ridge (Exhaust) Vents: Installed at the roof peak, they allow warm air to escape.
Balance Matters
Intake and exhaust ventilation should be properly balanced. Too little intake can make the system ineffective; too much exhaust can draw conditioned air from your home.
3. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Once snow melts, it needs a clean path off your roof. Clogged gutters trap water, creating prime conditions for ice to form.
Before winter arrives, clean your gutters thoroughly and ensure downspouts are free-flowing. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future buildup.
Dealing with Existing Ice Dams (Safely)
If an ice dam has already formed, the safest and most effective solution is to call the professionals. Attempting DIY removal can easily cause more harm than good—damaging shingles, gutters, or even voiding your roof warranty.
What to Do
- Call A. Clark Roofing & Siding: Our team can safely remove built-up snow and any accessible ice without damaging your roof or gutters.
- Let Nature Take Its Course: Once our team has cleared the snow, existing ice will gradually melt away. With no new snow feeding the dam, it can no longer grow or trap water.
Protect Your Home Year After Year With Ice Dam Removal in Calgary
Preventing ice dams isn’t just about avoiding leaks—it’s about preserving the long-term health of your home. With proper insulation, ventilation, and maintenance, you can enjoy a worry-free winter and avoid costly repairs.
For expert help with roof repair, maintenance, or ice dam removal in Calgary, contact A. Clark Roofing & Siding for a free quote. Our team is here to keep your roof strong, dry, and ready for whatever winter brings.
