Services in this group
Roof & Attic Ventilation
Attic ventilation lets outside air through the attic to dry it and clear summer heat. It is not a cure for ice dams on its own. University of Minnesota Extension does not recommend powered attic fans for ice dams in Minnesota, and the state energy office says added roof vents often make them worse.Ice Dam Prevention & Heat Cables
Heat cables are wires laid along the roof edge to melt paths for water. The Minnesota Department of Commerce advises against installing them, saying they shorten the life of a roof and add to energy costs. The fix for the cause is sealing attic air leaks and adding insulation.Problems that lead here
Guides on fix the cause
- How to Prevent Ice Dams in MinnesotaSeal the air leaks in the ceiling first, then insulate the attic to at least R-50 where space allows, as the Department of Commerce advises. Keep the natural vents open and skip powered ones. Until the work is done, rake snow off the lower roof from the ground after big storms.
- How to Remove Ice Dams in MinnesotaIf water is coming in, hire an ice dam removal service that uses steam, as the Minnesota Department of Commerce advises, and skip chipping, chemicals and open heat. If the house is dry, rake snow off the lower roof from the ground. Then seal the attic air leaks that cause ice dams.