Ice dams can wreak havoc on your home. At their worst, they lead to extensive water damage and bring about the need to entirely replace your roof. Here’s what you should know about ice dams and how you can prevent them.
How ice dams form
When snow on warmer parts of a roof melt, the water drips down to the eaves where it eventually freezes back into ice. This ice can then accumulate until it eventually makes its way under the roof shingles. Once there, warmer temperatures can cause it to melt once more. Then, the water can leak into your home and damage the ceiling and insulation.
Add roof vents
Among other things, ventilation is essential for regulating the temperature of your roof. A roof vent will draw the cold winter air in and send the warm attic air out, ensuring that the roof’s surface stays cool all season long.
Some roofs are more difficult to ventilate than others, and it can be tricky to determine the size of vent required, so it’s recommended that you hire a professional to handle the task.
Replace the insulation in your attic
New insulation has a lot of advantages to offer. It prevents mould, blocks out drafts and greatly reduces your electricity bills. Furthermore, when applied in your attic, it can prevent ice dams from forming. This is because high-quality insulation under the roof ensures that it’ll have the same temperature from its peak to its eaves.
Use spray foam insulation
If you decide to redo your roof’s insulation, it’s recommended that you use spray foam insulation. There are many different types of insulation to choose from, but spray foam is the most effective in deterring ice dams. This is because it expands upon application, filling all hard-to-reach nooks and crannies and sealing all cracks and gaps.
Spray foam’s excellent coverage maximizes its insulating properties, ensuring that ice dams don’t bother you again. To ensure proper application, however, you should always hire a professional to do the job.
Insulation installers in Toronto
If it’s time to update your home’s insulation, don’t hesitate to get started. With a variety of services to meet all your insulation needs, Reitzel Insulation will do the job right. Hiring us guarantees you’ll be satisfied with the finished product. Contact our insulation company today to get started before winter comes.
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