Roof ice dams are a common issue for commercial properties in colder climates. An ice dam forms on the roof when heat loss through the roof deck occurs to create meltwater which refreezes forming a dam which prevents snow from properly draining off the roof. This can seep beneath your roofing system, leading to leaks and potential roof damage.
If untreated, ice dams on a roof can put strain on the roof, causing interior issues. Here are 7 signs that ice dams could be forming on your commercial roof.
- Icicles along the roof edges: While icicles themselves aren’t always a cause for concern, their presence, especially large ones along the eaves or gutters, can indicate ice dam formation. Icicles hanging from a roof not only signal roof ice dam formation but can also be a safety hazard especially in areas where pedestrians frequent.
- Water damage on interior ceilings or walls: If ice dams cause water to back up under the roof shingles, you may start seeing stains or water damage inside the building. Water damage can lead to the grow of mold or mildew, creating most costly repairs.
- Peeling paint or blistering walls: Another sign of ice dams on a roof is water infiltration, which can cause paint to peel or walls to blister. Water seeping into the building through the roof can cause paint to peel or walls to blister.
- Sagging gutters: The added weight of roof ice dams can cause gutters to sag or even detach from the building. A sagging or detach gutter is not only a sign of ice dam formation but a liability and safety hazard, especially in area where people may be present.
- Uneven snow melt on the roof: If some areas of your roof are clear while others are still snow-covered, this could be a sign that heat is escaping through parts of the roof, leading to roof ice dams formations where the roof is colder. If heat is escaping through your roof system, this is an indicator that your building is not as energy efficient as it could be an insulation issue, contributing to roof ice dam development.
- Water dripping from the roof, but not from the gutters: If you see water dripping from unusual places, such as through soffits or walls, it may indicate water is being forced behind the ice dam, and the roof ice dam is preventing proper drainage.
- Ice buildup in gutters and downspouts or gutters not draining: Ice clogging your gutters and downspouts can indicate a blockage caused by an ice dam that prevents proper drainage.
Detecting these signs early can help prevent extensive water damage and roof deterioration. It’s important to address ice dams on commercial roofs promptly to avoid costly repairs. Contact DCPS roofing, which specializes in roof snow removal to remove and help prevent ice dams.
