With winter still upon us, Columbus, Ohio, can find itself blanketed in snow, posing potential roof problems for homeowners. When snow melts and refreezes, it forms ice dams, a significant concern as they can lead to water damage within your home, including ruined drywall, mold growth, wood decay, and more. Hence, it’s imperative to address ice buildup on your roof promptly.
Unfortunately, there’s plenty of misinformation circulating regarding safe de-icing methods, leading some homeowners to inadvertently harm themselves or their property. To avoid such mishaps, here are some practical tips for effectively de-icing your roof without causing costly damage.
Roof Raking:
Snow rakes, available at local home improvement stores, are purpose-built tools designed to safely remove snow and ice from your roof. Unlike regular garden rakes, these aluminum tools feature wheels to prevent scratching or damaging your roof’s surface. They enable you to clear snow and ice while maintaining a safe distance. However, exercise caution when dealing with large ice formations, especially those with icicles, and ensure the area below is clear before dislodging any ice.
Heated Cables:
Heated cables, powered by electricity, melt snow and ice to prevent the formation of damaging ice dams. While ideally installed before the first snowfall, they can still be effective after ice has formed. Take care when mounting these cables to avoid piercing your roof with nails or staples.
Improve Attic Ventilation:
Ice dams occur due to temperature variations between the roof’s high and low points. Enhancing attic ventilation helps regulate the temperature, reducing the likelihood of ice formation. Ensure air intake vents near the eaves are unobstructed to allow proper airflow. Additionally, install attic vents along the ridge to facilitate heat escape, maintaining a consistent roof temperature.
Enhance Attic Insulation:
Adequate attic insulation prevents excessive heat from escaping into the attic, thus reducing the risk of ice dams. Check and reinforce insulation, paying attention to areas prone to air leaks, such as around light fixtures.
Preventative Measures:
Prevention is key to mitigating roof ice buildup. In addition to heated cables, focus on maintaining optimal attic ventilation to prevent ice formation. By prioritizing these measures, you can safeguard your roof without resorting to costly repairs.
Use Warm Water Spray:
When dealing with minor ice buildup on your roof, a practical solution involves using a large spray bottle filled with warm water. Gently apply the warm water directly onto the icy areas. Exercise caution to avoid any risk of burns. This method offers a quick and straightforward approach to targeting and eliminating ice.
Schedule a Free Inspection:
To combat the formidable forces of nature, consider scheduling a free gutter and roof inspection. Take proactive steps to safeguard your home against potential damage caused by ice. Contact us today at (614)-517-1717 to arrange your complimentary roof inspection. Don’t let roof ice dictate the outcome—take control of the situation and call Supreme Roofing and Exteriors LLC.
