Restoration Local Offers Tips On Ice Dam Removal
Cleveland OH (PRWEB) December 13, 2013 -- Restoration Local, one of the leading providers of water damage repair and restoration services in the United States, is offering recommendations to property owners on how to best handle ice dams that may occur on residential and commercial roofing structures. Ice dams typically are not discovered until long after they have formed, giving them ample time to cause significant structural damage.
Ice dams occur when temperatures in the attic rise to the level that allows ice on the roof to melt. It then runs down the roof until it encounters colder eaves, whereupon it freezes up again. Once this cycle has been repeated several times, a literal dam of ice is formed.
Ice dams can be prevented by properly insulating the attic flooring and using a dehumidifier to prevent warm moist air from infiltrating the attic area. Any openings that allow vapor to rise into the attic area should be sealed up.
Attic temps can also be kept below freezing as this will prevent the formation of ice dams. Provide proper ventilation into the attic to replace the warm air.
It is not recommended to chip away at the ice dam, since this could damage the shingle or flashing beneath. Mechanical devices and water heaters in the attic can also contribute to the formation of the ice dam, so locate them elsewhere in the home. Do not use salt or calcium chloride to melt roof ice, as these are corrosive agents that could adversely affect the working order of gutters and flashings. Keeping the gutters clean is another way of preventing ice dams, since clogged gutters can cause water to back up and puddle, where it may cause serious damage if allowed to refreeze continually.
Restoration Local is one of the leading providers of water damage restoration and mold remediation services in the US, with providers in 30 states, 24/7 availability, and same day emergency service. They are certified by the Clean Trust (IICRC) and Restoration Industry Association (RIA) and a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
Darrell Ritchie, 33 Mile Radius, http://www.33mileradius.com/, +1 678-860-4004, [email protected]
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