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How to Prevent Ice Dams from Starting at Your West Erie Home
12/28/2020 (Permalink)
Ice dams happen due to water runoff freezing before it can completely fall off your roof and builds up creating a “dam”.
Winter in Pennsylvania is here. Have you seen the sight of large icicles hanging off around the perimeter of your home? Those are referred to as “ice dams”. As a kid---those were exciting to get ahold of. But as an adult; we do not quite see the magic we once did. SERVPRO of West Erie County is here to help you prevent those pesky and dangerous icicles from happening in the first place.
Ice dams happen due to water runoff freezing before it can completely fall off your roof and builds up creating a “dam”. The reason you want to ensure these do not happen is because they can cause major havoc on your home. From loosening shingles to tearing off gutters, damage to your home can get expensive quick. Even more concerning, they can create water build up in your home. Here’s what you can do before the cold weather hits.
- Properly insulate your attic. This helps stop the water runoff to begin with by making sure the warm air does not leave you home through the roof.
- Ventilate the attic. Believe it or not you want to ensure the attic stays cold! This insulates the snow, making sure it does not just melt the minute it hits your roof. If it melts---it goes right to the gutters and freezes, creating the ice dams.
- Get crafty by installing a water repellent roof membrane. Take that, ice dams!
- Clean your gutters one more time before winter. Make sure no extra debris or leaves got in the gutter.
Ice and snow are part of winter here in Erie. But SERVPRO of West Erie County is here to ensure your home stays safe. We are the area’s number one water damage restoration company. Should your home experience any water damage or winter weather hazards, contact us to have the job done correctly.
Homes can be a safe haven from the stress of the world. However, sometimes the stress is there waiting for you when you get back from work, vacation, or even running errands. When you walk in the door, the last thing you expect to find is inches of water. When your home has water damage from ice dams, leaks, or burst pipes, SERVPRO of West Erie County has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. The water removal and water cleanup process is completed by our highly trained technicians who will document the drying process. This validates that your property has been dried properly and thoroughly.
Here we have some helpful tips outlined in our Water Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide to protect yourself and your property. Follow us on Facebook for more tips about water damage.