Debris isn’t the only threat to your low-sloping roof’s drainage system. In especially cold climates, ice can build up on the edge of the roof or around drains, creating a barricade that prevents snow and water from escaping. As additional precipitation falls, the pooling water and snow that’s already on your roof cause the weight of the load to surge exponentially, increasing the risk of roof collapse and other serious issues, like water damage.

Ice dams are often caused by insufficient insulation above ceilings and in attics. Hot air rises. When insulation is poor, heat from the building’s interior warms up the roof, melting snow in inconsistent sections. The run-off then freezes along the edge of the roof or around the drain, creating the ice dam. Ensuring your building is properly insulated will help prevent ice accumulation on the roof.

Many businesses also install heating cables. Hire a professional roofer to place heating cables around drains and along gutters.

If you find yourself dealing with ice dams in spite of your best efforts, remember the following:

Don’t chip away or hammer the ice. You could damage your roof, gutters, and more, costing you even more money and time in the long run.

Hire a professional. Timing is everything when it comes to removing snow, ice, and water from a roof. Instead of risking your own safety and your roof’s structural integrity, call a roofing expert, who will inspect and advise thoroughly.

With Roof Monitor’s revolutionary technology, you’re able to monitor the weight on your roof constantly. Decisions about when to remove snow and water become much simpler and safer, whether the culprit causing the build-up is copious precipitation, ice dams, or debris.

Contact us today to schedule a free demo.