Ice dams are a natural result of snow piling up on the roof of a certain infrastructure until it solidifies and turns into an icy bomb just waiting to explode. And when that occurs, not only will it be extremely dangerous, it will threaten the structural integrity of the infrastructure itself.
While ice dams can have a huge damaging effect to the property, they can indeed be prevented. The major issue is in the buildup of the snow until it solidifies into an icy block, prevention efforts and tactics can be directed towards the control of the icy buildup.
Understanding Ice Dams
The idea of a dam is to act as a reservoir. In ice dams, the water is in the form of ice which, because of the crystallized formation of water, this type of occurrence is extremely difficult for sun and or water to break down. So think of an ice dam like an ordinary reservoir. The outermost surface of the ice acts as the reservoir while the inner parts of the ice are the water that is held inside the reservoir.
The Danger of Ice Dams
Just like an ordinary dam bursting or releasing water, the danger in ice dams cuts two ways. First, the sheer weight of the icy buildup might exert pressure stronger than the load-bearing capacity of the structure. If this pressure is not relieved soon, the whole structure might just give in and collapse.
The second reason why it is dangerous is that ice dams, when they do begin to melt, will cause water damage to the underlying structures. This can lead to the growth of molds and the development of spores which are other problems altogether. Furthermore, the structural integrity of the roof and its related structures can get significantly weakened with the passing of time.
Preventing Ice Dams
The only way to avert disasters from ice dams is to prevent the formation or development of icy buildup. While working on your roof, shoveling and removing the snow that has been piling up, can definitely help relieve the pressure off your roof, you simply cannot expect to climb up the roof every few hours just to shovel away at the snow. You will need a more efficient system of managing snow and ice build-up on your roof.
The use of roof heating cables or roof heating tapes strategically placed on your roof, particularly the gutters and roof sections where snow will most likely build up, can be beneficial in preventing the formation of ice dams.
Roof Heating Systems
Roof heating systems work by passing electricity onto a heating element which melts the ice in its immediate vicinity. Roof heating systems like heating cables or heating tapes are primarily composed of two parallel conductors surrounded by the conductive core. With dropping temperatures, the conductive core microscopically contracts allowing for more electrical energy to pass through the system and generate more heat. The heat generated is what melts the ice and prevents the formation of ice dams.
Benefits of Roof Heating Systems
A well-installed roof heating system can give you the peace of mind and feeling of security you deserve while enjoying the comforts and warmth of your home on an otherwise icy climate. Preventing ice dam formation can be translated into savings from costly repairs to your roof or attic as well as the sense of security of not having the entire roof collapse on you. Additionally, installation of effective roof heating systems will safeguard the health of your family since you will be preventing the growth of molds as well as the release of spores.
Winter time in Utah is a great time to be with the family, just enjoying each other’s company for the rest of the snowy and icy season. However, it does not need to be spoiled with exceedingly preventable accidents. Installing an effective roof heating system will ensure your family’s safety, security, and well-being all throughout the winter and well right into spring as the snow starts to melt.
Distributed by Any Hour Services
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