HOW CAN ICE DAMS BE PREVENTED?
Adequate attic insulation, proper roof ventilation and the necessary amount of ice and water shield are three ways how you can prevent ice dams from forming on your home. Ice and water shield is a rubber-like asphalt and fiberglass membrane, that is applied at the gutter line, in the valleys, around chimneys, skylights and any other areas of the roof that would benefit from a leak barrier. When installing ice and water shield above the gutterlines, it is necessary to install the proper amount. The manufacturer recommends that the shield extend 24″ within the heated wall of the house. In other words, if you have an overhang of about 2 feet, you need to install at least 4 feet of ice and water shield (2 feet for the overhang, and 2 feet past the heated wall). The ice and water shield also seals itself around nails and will divert any water that penetrates the roofing material to run to the gutter and not into the house.
