Although the days are (finally) getting longer, this past weekend showed we are not out of the woods yet when it comes to winter and its associated hazards. Ice dams are one of those, and they are very sneaky and insidious. They tend to happen most when temperatures are between minus-9 to minus-1 Celsius (exactly where Alberta’s overnight temperatures are hovering these days), and daily freeze/thaw cycles make the conditions all that more ideal for their formation.
Ice dams are ridges of ice that typically develop along the edge of a roof or inside the eavestroughs. When these ridges form, they can block or slow the normal flow of melting snow and water off the roof. Large icicles hanging from the roofline can sometimes signal that an ice dam is present (or beginning to form), although icicles alone do not always mean a dam has developed.
When snow on roofs begins to melt and the resulting water flows downward toward the colder edges of the roof and gutters, it refreezes. When the roof surface is warm, melting occurs more quickly, which increases the amount of water flowing down the roof and raises the likelihood that ice will accumulate at the roof’s edge. Over time, this frozen ridge can grow larger and begin to trap water behind it. When the trapped water has nowhere to drain, it can seep beneath roof shingles and potentially make its way into the home.
Several factors commonly contribute to the formation of ice dams:
Inadequate attic insulation — If your attic is not properly insulated, heat from your home can escape through the ceiling and warm the underside of the roof. This warmth causes snow on the roof to melt more quickly, creating the conditions that lead to ice dam formation.
Poor attic ventilation — Proper ventilation helps maintain consistent temperatures across your roof. Heat then builds up in your attic and causes uneven roof temperatures, especially near the peak of your roof.
Snow accumulation and blocked eavestroughs — If your eavestroughs are clogged with leaves or debris, meltwater may not drain efficiently and can refreeze more easily along the roofline.
What kind of damage can ice dams cause?
The most serious risk associated with ice dams is water damage, which is also the most common type of home insurance claim.
Once water has leaked into your home, the moisture can lead to stained ceilings, damaged walls, and peeling paint. Over time, persistent moisture can also contribute to the growth of mould and mildew. In the worst cases, exposure to water that has not been discovered may even weaken the structural components of your home, such as your main framework.
Ice dams can also damage the exterior parts of your roof. The weight and expansion of the ice will bend and/or loosen eavestroughs, damage soffits, and strain downspouts. Shingles may also become damaged or lifted if water repeatedly freezes and expands beneath them.
Because ice dams can lead to both interior and exterior damage, it’s extremely important to address the underlying causes. We highly recommend hiring a professional, such as a professional roofing company, to help improve your insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
Does my insurance cover damage from an ice dam?
In most cases, standard homeowners’ insurance policies will cover sudden and accidental water damage caused by an ice dam. However, damage that occurs gradually or repeatedly is more than likely to be considered a maintenance issue and may not be covered.
Insurance policies can vary significantly between providers and coverage levels. Some basic policies may not include protection for certain types of water damage related to ice dams. For this reason, homeowners should review their insurance coverage regularly to ensure they understand what is and isn’t included.
This is where we can help. As experienced insurance brokers, we know the right questions to ask to make sure you are getting the coverage you need. Water damage endorsements have become the norm since the 2013 floods in Alberta, however, depending on how long you have had your policy, it’s possible you may not have one included. If you have questions about your policy or want to explore additional protection, we are the people to ask. And the best part is that we are not locked into a single policy from a single provider.
It’s always vital to remember that home insurance operates a little differently from vehicle insurance. It is designed to respond to unexpected or accidental events, not issues that arise from ongoing maintenance concerns. In many situations, ice dams can be prevented with proper upkeep and preventative measures. Keeping eavestroughs clear of debris, ensuring your attic has adequate insulation and ventilation, removing excess snow from your roof, and scheduling regular roof maintenance are all steps that can help reduce the likelihood of ice dams forming.
Trust Lane’s Insurance for All Your Coverage Needs
As a brokerage, we at Lane’s work for you, not the providers. When you choose Lane’s Insurance, you’re opting for a proven company with an excellent track record for customer satisfaction. Lane’s also offers outstanding claims support and expert advice that ensures all your insurance needs are met.
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