Get Rid of Pesky Winter Ice Dams

When it comes to the pesky annoyances about winter in New England, where should we start? How about one that can actually cause some damage to your home: Ice dams. The same conditions that cause icicles to form (Snow-covered roofs, freezing temperatures) also lead to these thick dams of ice that build up along the eaves of your home. This can tear off gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up and pour into your home. So what are some ways to prevent this from happening? First up on the list compiled by This Old House is the idea of using heated cables. These cables will help to combat ice dams, but make sure you install the cables before the bad weather starts to roll in. If it’s too late and you already have these problems, you can blow in cold air. Takign a box fan into the attic and aiming it at the underside of the roof where water is leaking in should freeze the water in its tracks and stop the leak in a matter of minutes.To read the tips article on This Old House, click here.