Keep Your Home Safe This Winter, and Say Goodbye to ICE Damns.

Winter brings a unique set of challenges for homeowners, especially in regions like Peterborough and the Monadnock area where snow and ice are part of the season’s routine. One of the most damaging and frustrating problems is the formation of ice dams on roofs. These icy buildups can cause serious damage to your home and create safety hazards. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent ice dams and protect your property throughout the cold months.

Ice dams forming on a residential roof in winter

What Are Ice Dams and Why Are They Dangerous?

Ice dams form when heat from inside your home escapes through the roof, melting snow that then refreezes at the colder edges of the roof. This creates a barrier of ice that traps water behind it. As the trapped water builds up, it can seep under shingles and into your home’s walls and ceilings.

The consequences of ice dams include:

• Water damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation

• Mold growth from trapped moisture

• Structural damage to roofing materials and gutters

• Increased risk of falls and injuries from falling ice

  
  

These problems not only threaten your home’s security but also add stress and costly repairs during winter.

How to Prevent Ice Dams From Forming

Preventing ice dams requires a combination of proper roof maintenance and home insulation. Here are some practical steps:

• Improve attic insulation to keep warm air from escaping through the roof

• Seal air leaks around vents, chimneys, and light fixtures

• Ensure proper roof ventilation to maintain a cold roof temperature

• Install an Active System such as self-regulating heat tape

• Remove snow buildup regularly using safe roof raking tools or professional services

  
  

By addressing these factors, you reduce the chances of ice dams forming and protect your home from damage.

The Avalanche System: A Reliable Solution for Snow Removal From Your Roof.

When ice dams do form, removing snow at and above the eave is critical to ensure they don't continue to grow and potentially cause problems. The Avalanche system offers an effective way to clear snow from your roof without causing damage. This system uses specialized tools and techniques to break up and slide snow away from your eaves, preventing further buildup.

Benefits of the Avalanche system include:

• Safe removal without harming shingles or gutters

• Quick and efficient clearing of snow from roof, particularly from the eaves

• Reduced risk of water damage and structural issues

  
  

Using this system early and often in the season can keep your roof ice-free and your home secure.

Professional clearing ice dams from a residential roof using specialized equipment

Why Scheduling Roof Maintenance Early Matters

Waiting until ice dams become a visible problem can be costly and risky. Scheduling roof maintenance before ice builds up can:

• Significantly extend the life of a roof

• Reduce heavy structural loads

• Prevent water infiltration

• Limit damage to gutters

  
  

Early action helps avoid emergency repairs and keeps your home safe throughout winter.

Serving Peterborough and the Monadnock Region

Homeowners in the Peterborough and Monadnock areas face harsh winters that demand reliable solutions. Local professionals understand the unique weather challenges and provide tailored services to protect your home.

If you want to keep your roof clear and avoid the damage ice dams cause, it’s wise to get on the schedule now. Don’t wait for ice to become a real problem at your house.