For the first time in a long time we are starting to experience some warmer temperatures which means, you guessed it, lots of melting! Although some homeowners might feel relieved at the thought of melting, sometimes a quick meltdown can actually exacerbate leaks for homeowners still dealing with ice dams. If ice dams haven’t completely cleared, the additional water can back up into the home causing interior leaks and damage.
As previously discussed, the leading cause of ice dams is most often inadequate insulation and ventilation in attic spaces (and vaulted ceilings where attics are not present). In addition, if a homeowner does not have proper ice & water shield  (also known as “leak barrier”) around the edge of their roof as well as the rakes, sidewalls, valleys, dormers and chimney, water can easily seep through the shingles and into the home. At Coastal Windows & Exteriors we install 6 feet of ice & water shield in all necessary roof areas, while most companies install only 3 feet or less. This leak barrier will protect your home from interior leaking as ice dams build up and then when they melt in warmer temperatures.
Over the past few weeks we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners remove snow and ice dams from their roof and gutters. Although this has helped stop leaking and has relieved roof stress, this has not fixed the underlying problems. We urge all homeowners to get a COMPLETE roof & attic inspection to help identify problem areas so they don’t go through the same problems next winter. Remember the long waits to get your roof worked on? Don’t wait until we’re in the midst of another winter before you fix any roof and attic issues. We’ve seen many homes with inadequate ventilation and insulation, new roofs without leak barriers, old rotting shingles, chimneys that weren’t flashed. You name it, we’ve seen it.
At Coastal Windows & Exteriors we’re offering FREE Roof & Attic Inspections. Take care of your HOME and it will take care of YOU. Call us at 978-304-0495 or fill out a form to learn everything you need to know about keeping your roof, windows, siding and entry doors secure during the melting season.
