Many homeowners in New Berlin and Muskego view large icicles as a standard part of winter décor. In reality, they are a symptom of a serious architectural flaw: the ice dam.
Ice dams occur when heat escapes from your home into the attic, warming the roof deck and melting the snow above. This water runs down to the colder eaves and refreezes, creating a ridge of ice. This ridge then traps subsequent meltwater, forcing it back up under your shingles.
Signs you have an ice dam problem:
- Large icicles forming only on the gutters, not the siding.
- Ice backup visible along the roof edge.
- Water stains on the ceiling near exterior walls.
If your home has a history of ice dams, your roof is already under immense stress. The weight of the ice alone can damage your gutters and fascia. More importantly, the constant cycle of water backing up under the shingles will lead to rot and mold. Buck Remodeling specialists can evaluate your roof’s “health” and determine if a replacement or improved ventilation is necessary before the first frost.
