The Big Threat of Ice Dams

Colorado's various regions tend to experience different amounts and rates of snowfall during the winter. For example, while the Highlands Ranch area may receive five inches of snow, Fort Collins might only see one inch. Similarly, Colorado Springs may get four inches, and the Denver area could finish with just two.

Following a snowstorm, roofs across Colorado are often blanketed in snow. If the sun comes out and warms things up again, it can cause a problem. Accumulated snow and icicles can obstruct the melting snow from draining off your roof, causing water pools.

Here is how it typically happens:

1. Melting Snow: This causes the snow on the roof to melt despite the cold outside temperatures. The water trickles down the roof until it reaches the eaves of the house. As the eaves extend beyond the walls of your house, they are typically colder and cause the water to refreeze.
2. Ice Accumulation and Dam Formation: The process of melting and refreezing builds up an ice dam at the edge of the roof. Over time, this dam grows larger and starts to trap water on the roof.
3. Potential Damage: The trapped water can seep under the roof shingles and find its way into the interior of the house. This can lead to damage like peeling paint, warped floors, stained and sagging ceilings, soggy attic insulation, and the growth of mold and mildew.