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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Ice dams are a Leading Culprit for Water Leaks in Winter

1/15/2023 (Permalink)

an illustrated graphic of an ice dam Have Water, Storm, Flood, or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

Winter Weather Worries - Ice Dams

A roof leaking water into your interior walls, ceilings, and floors is not a pretty picture. Ice dams are a leading culprit for water leaks during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow above and behind the dammed up ice when the trapped water cannot safely flow or run off the roof. The ice-dam backflows under the roof's shingles and into interior areas. 

SERVPRO of Dane County West can help mitigate water damage caused by ice dams and help you get your structure back to it's preloss condition. 

Prevent Ice Dams from forming on your roof in the first place.

Consider these tried and true preventative measures:

  • Start by removing the offending culprit in the first place. Shovel or use a snow rake to remove the snow from your roof.
  • Make sure your attic and rafter space is adequately insulated. Insulation is the first line of defense consideration.
  • Make sure your attic and crawl spaces are well ventilated. The buildup of warm air in open areas above the layer of insulation is what causes snow on the roof to melt then freeze into ice dams in the first place.
  • Make sure exhaust fans, plumbing vents recessed ceiling fans, and anything penetrating through your roof are sealed and insulated.

When should I be concerned about water coming inside my structure?

  • Icicles forming on the edge of your roof are the most apparent indicator of ice dams and possible water invasion.
  • Be extra aware when ice accumulates higher than just the edge of the roof, over the gutters, or up onto the roof itself.
  • If ice forms underneath the soffits through the vents, on the wall, or under windows, water is invading your structure.

What do I do if I think I have water damage?

Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

If winter weather strikes your business or home with water or fire damage, let us help strike back! Equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate water or fire damage and restore your home or business, SERVPRO of Dane County West will help make it "Like it never even happened.”®

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service.
  • IICRC Certified Firm.
  • A rating from the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
  • 5-Star Google rankings.
  • We work with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork for a stress-free claims process.
  • General Contractor License #: 1317784

Have Water, Storm, Flood, or Fire Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today 
(608) 497-3331

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