Ice Dam Repair & Prevention in Madison, WI

Why Madison gets so many

Long stretches below freezing, steady snow cover and many older homes with limited attic insulation create perfect conditions. Heat leaking from the house melts snow from below, and the water refreezes at the cold eaves.

Signs to watch for

A thick band of ice along the eaves, large icicles, water stains on ceilings or walls near outside corners, peeling paint and wet attic insulation.

Removing ice safely

Professional removal often uses low-pressure steam, which melts channels through the ice without damaging shingles. Hammers, axes and pressure washers can tear the roof apart.

Reducing the risk

From the ground, a long-handled roof rake can pull snow off the lower few feet of roof after a heavy fall. Keep gutters clear before winter.

Fixing the cause

Air sealing between the house and attic, more insulation and good ventilation keep the roof deck cold so snow doesn't melt unevenly. See attic ventilation.

Repairing the damage

Ice dams can loosen shingles, soak decking and pull gutters away. Once conditions allow, a roofer can repair the damage and recommend changes.

Inside the house

Check for wet insulation, stained drywall and mould after a leak. Drying out quickly limits damage.

Get help

Tell the roofer where the ice forms and whether water has come in. Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.

Wall damage

Water from an ice dam often runs down inside the wall rather than the ceiling. Peeling paint, bubbling drywall or stained window trim on outside walls in late winter are worth investigating.