Ice Dams and the Damage They May Cause

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Icicles hanging from the roof of a home.

Cold and harsh winters can result in significant property damage, especially for the unprepared homeowner. Storm remediation companies in Salt Lake City, UT, often express warnings of heavy snow leading to the development of an ice dam, which is an ice buildup that prevents water from draining off the roof as snow melts. There are five potential damages homeowners should worry about with this winter and cold weather structures.

1. Paint deterioration
   
2. Soft Siding
   
3. Wet Insulation
   
4. Roof Damage
   
5. Mold Growth

5 Potential Damages Caused By Ice Dams

Paint Deterioration

When a winter storm leads to the creation of a dam, residential property owners need to watch for signs of paint deterioration. If you see paint begin to bubble and peel, you need to take action and resolve the ice issue.

Soft Siding

When paint bubbles, it is likely a sign of water damage and soft siding. Unfortunately, if soft siding occurs, you may not receive ice dam coverage because dams are often considered preventable problems.

Wet Insulation

When an ice dam is left to sit, it is only a matter of time before the water from the roof makes its way beneath the siding and into the insulation. When the water reaches the insulation, it is paramount that homeowners act to mitigate any further property loss.

Roof Damage

As the dam can cause siding and insulation damage, it can also force melting snow underneath shingles, saturating the underlayment of the roof. If the water damage is not corrected quickly, you may experience several leaks in your attic and upstairs.

Mold Growth

As with any form of water damage, mold growth is a significant threat. Mold requires moisture to survive, and if the dam causes wet insulation or a leaky roof, you may only have between 24 and 48 hours before the first signs of mold occur.

An ice dam is a disaster that requires rapid mitigation to prevent interior and structural damage to your home. Contact a storm remediation specialist to assess your house and risks.