Minnesota winters bring with them snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Unfortunately, these items can sit in and against your gutters and roof, causing an ice dam to form. An ice dam can be damaging to both your gutter system and your roof. Many people know what an ice dam is, but not what to do if they have one. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions and the answers you should know about ice dams:

What Are the Signs You Have an Ice Dam on Your Roof?

If you notice ice on your roof, icicles hanging from the side of the roof or your gutters, or ice forming on your exterior walls, you likely have an ice dam. If your gutters are sagging and pulling away from your roof and it is freezing outside, you likely have the beginnings of an ice dam.

Can You Remove an Ice Dam Yourself?

It may be tempting to remove an ice dam yourself but you should avoid doing so. If you incorrectly remove an ice dam, you can cause more damage than may already be present to your gutters or roofing.

What Should You Do If You Have an Ice Dam on Your Roof?

If you suspect you have, or know you have, an ice dam, you should call in a roofing professional. They have the tools and the skill set to remove it safely from your roof without causing any additional damage. They may use salts to melt the ice or they may use heat, depending on the location and size of the ice dam.

Contact Us Today

Having your roof and gutter system inspected and maintained prior to the winter can help to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof. If you are looking to schedule an inspection or an ice dam has formed and you need to have it removed, contact The Construction Group, serving the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul Metro area. We can help you with all of your roofing and gutter needs.