Removing An Ice Dam From Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

If you've stepped outside this week, even if just for a minute, then you know how cold it's been. And with snow in our past and more dropping in this morning, it's possible that icy weather conditions could take a toll on our homes in the near future.

In a previous blog, we offered a few tips to help you prevent an ice dam from forming on your roof. Since these damaging circumstances result from melted snow on your roof that has frozen over again due to abnormally low temperatures, now is the time when you need to be on the look out for signs that suggest one is forming. But just in case you don't get there in time to stop it in its tracks, we've put together a few strategies you can use to remove it before water starts to seep into your home:

1. Roof Rake: Just like roof rakes come in handy to help prevent ice dams from forming, they can also be used to get rid of them. In order to eliminate an ice dam from your home, try knocking it off (carefully, of course) using this tool.
2. Calcium Chloride/Ice Melt: Apply calcium chloride or a similar ice melt (but not rock salt!) to the ice dam in order to speed up the melting process. One trick that you may consider is placing the calcium chloride into a nylon stocking first rather than putting it directly on the ice dam.
3. Hiring A Roofing Contractor: If the ice dam on your roof is out of reach or too difficult to remove yourself, contact a professional for help! Asking a licensed contractor to assist with the problem is the best way to keep both you and your roof safe!

Here at Phil's Main Roofing, we know how intimidating it can be to discover your roof has been compromised due to harsh winter weather. That's why we're here to help! If you're left with damage at any point during the season, help us help you by contacting our team at (203) 838-4545. Or, visit us on our website to learn more about our commercial and residential roofing services!