Ice Dams in the Twin Cities: Causes and Cures

Although ice dams are common in the Twin Cities, they are not inevitable. Ice dams are caused by problems with your home's construction, and, once they form, they cause even more problems such as:

• Damage to your gutters

• Damage to your shingles

• Damage to your siding

• Damage to your windows

Each of these could result in water and ice intruding behind your building materials. The water will then enter your home, causing water damage, mold and rot. All of this damage results in unsightly defects, possible structural problems and even more energy loss.

Ice dams may result from several defects in your home's construction, but the most common is insufficient insulation in your walls or attic.

Ice dam removal is expensive, dangerous and, if done improperly, could cause further damage to your home. But the destruction caused by ice dams may be even more expensive, dangerous and damaging.

Especially in the Twin Cities, where there is often extreme fluctuation in the weather, it's best to avoid ice dams in the first place. 

Having your attic properly insulated is a relatively inexpensive way to avoid all of the trouble caused by ice dams. Get it done now! Don't wait for Mother Nature to tell you!