Minneapolis Ice Dam Home Repair

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof, typically near the gutters or eaves. It prevents melting snow from properly draining off the roof, leading to potential damage to the roof, interior walls, and ceilings.

Three important points to note about ice dams:

• Ice dams occur when warm air in the attic causes snow on the roof to melt and then refreeze at the roof's colder eaves.
• They can lead to water infiltration, which can result in structural damage, insulation problems, and even mold growth.
• Ice dams are more likely to form in cold climates with frequent snowfall and temperature fluctuations.

Ice dam removal is necessary to prevent the damage caused by ice dams and to protect the integrity of the roof and the interior of the home.

Three reasons why ice dam removal is essential:

• Prevent water damage: Ice dams can cause water to back up under shingles, leading to leaks, damaged ceilings, and even structural deterioration.
• Avoid mold and mildew: The moisture trapped by ice dams can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, posing health risks.
• Preserve energy efficiency: Ice dams can compromise insulation, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home and increasing heating costs.

Ice dam removal involves several methods to safely and effectively remove the ice buildup from the roof.

Three common methods of ice dam removal include:

• Steaming: Using specialized steam machines to melt the ice gently without damaging the roofing materials.
• Roof raking: Using long-handled roof rakes to manually remove snow from the roof's edge, preventing ice dams from forming.
• Chemical deicers: Applying ice-melting chemicals or calcium chloride to the roof to facilitate the melting of ice dams.

The timing of ice dam removal is crucial to prevent further damage to the home.

Three considerations for the timing of ice dam removal:

• Early detection: Remove ice dams as soon as they are noticed to minimize potential damage.
• Ongoing maintenance: Regularly remove snow from the roof during heavy snowfall to prevent ice dams from forming.
• Professional assistance: If ice dams persist or are too extensive, it's advisable to seek professional help for safe and effective removal.

The Just Us Construction & Restoration, Inc. team employs trained professionals to remove the ice and snow build-up from your residential or commercial roof. Ice dam removal will not damage the roof if done properly by trained professionals.

While some homeowners may attempt to remove ice dams themselves, there are risks associated with this approach.

Three risks of DIY ice dam removal:

• Personal injury: Climbing onto icy roofs can be dangerous, leading to slips, falls, or accidents.
• Roof damage: Incorrect removal methods, such as using sharp tools, can damage roofing materials and exacerbate the problem.
• Ineffective removal: DIY methods may not fully address the ice dam issue, allowing it to return or worsen.

Ice dam removal is essential for homeowners in Minnesota to protect their homes from potential damage caused by ice dams. Understanding what ice dams are, why they need to be removed, and the various removal methods can help homeowners take appropriate action to safeguard their roofs and interiors. However, for safe and effective ice dam removal, it is often best to consult with professionals who have the necessary expertise and equipment.

That is hard to determine. Many factors go into how long it takes to remove an ice dam, including weather. If it's warmer out, the ice gets removed much faster. Another significant factor is how far up the ice goes on the roof. Ice can range from 2 feet up the roof to 15 feet. The more ice there is, the longer it will take to completely remove the ice.

Generally, yes. We provide 24/7 emergency service, and if you have water leaking through your roof from an ice dam, we will respond immediately to start the removal and roof repair process.

Yes. Once water is leaking through your roof and into your home, most insurance companies will cover the cost of removing the ice from your roof. We always advise checking with your insurance company to ensure you understand what is covered.