Myth: Ice dams only form around gutters

As severe winter weather arrives, so do property damage risks as a result of ice dams. In fact, ice dams during freezing temperatures can cause thousands of dollars in property damage, according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).

During freezing weather, heat from your home or business can escape through the roof and melt snow on the roof. The snow melt can trickle down to the roof’s edge and refreeze, creating an ice dam that leaves additional snow melt no place to go but inside the attic.

Find out common misconceptions about ice dams below using guidance from IBHS, while ice dam prevention resources are available at DisasterSafety.org.

ICE DAM MYTHS

Ice dams only form around gutters and eaves.

False: Ice dams can also form in roof valleys, pans, and shed dormers.

Heat cables are the answer.

False: Although heat cables can help prevent ice dams from forming, the are not a simple solution. Heat cables only last a few years before they need to be replaced, while it is important to also have proper drainage when using cables.

Ice dams are only a problem for older homes.

False: Ice dams are more common for older homes that have poor ventilation, newer homes can also be a risk of ice dam damage.

Visit DisasterSafety.org for more information about how to make your buildings more resistant to a variety of disasters, large and small. Follow IBHS on Twitter at @DisasterSafety and on Facebook.

Tags: news, updates, ice, winter