Ice dam prevention products are designed to help prevent the formation of ice dams on roofs, which can cause significant damage to the structure and potentially lead to water damage inside the home. An ice dam is a buildup of ice along the edges of a roof that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. As more snow melts, the water pools behind the dam and can seep through the shingles and into the attic or walls of a home, causing water damage and potentially leading to mold growth. Ice dams are most common in cold climates where snow accumulates on roofs, and they can be prevented through proper insulation and ventilation of the attic space, as well as by removing snow from the roof with a roof rake or by hiring a professional to remove it.
Several Ice dam prevention products in Canada
Ice dams can be a common problem in Canada during the winter months. To prevent ice dams, there are several products available on the market that can help:
Roof Heating Cables:
Roof heating cables can be installed on the edges and valleys of your roof to melt the snow and prevent ice dams from forming. They work by generating heat and keeping the roof’s temperature above freezing.
Ice and Water Shield:
This is a type of membrane that is installed under the shingles and helps prevent water from seeping into the roof. It can be effective in preventing ice dams by creating a watertight barrier.
Roof Rakes:
A roof rake is a tool that can be used to remove snow from the roof. By removing the snow, you reduce the weight on the roof and prevent ice dams from forming.
Attic Insulation:
Good attic insulation can help prevent heat from escaping from the house and melting the snow on the roof. By keeping the roof cold, you can reduce the risk of ice dams forming.
Ventilation:
Proper attic ventilation can also help prevent ice dams by keeping the roof cold and allowing air to circulate.
It’s important to note that some of these products, such as roof heating cables, should be installed by a professional to ensure they are installed correctly and safely. Additionally, it’s important to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the formation of ice dams, such as inadequate insulation or ventilation.
Why Ice dam prevention necessary in Canada?
Ice dam prevention is necessary in Canada because of the country’s cold and snowy climate. During winter, the snow on roofs can accumulate and freeze, creating a barrier or dam that prevents melted snow from draining off the roof properly. As a result, water can back up under shingles, leak into the roof, and cause damage to the roof, walls, and insulation. This is particularly problematic in Canada, where heavy snowfalls are common, and temperatures frequently drop well below freezing. Ice dams can also lead to dangerous icicles forming on the edges of roofs, which can fall and cause injury or property damage. To prevent ice dams, it’s essential to ensure proper insulation and ventilation in the roof system. Additionally, clearing snow from the roof before it has a chance to accumulate can help prevent ice dams from forming. Many Canadian homeowners also invest in heat tape or other preventative measures to protect their homes during the winter months.
What is the best insulation to prevent ice dams?
Ice dams occur when heat from the interior of a building causes snow on the roof to melt, and then the melted snow refreezes when it reaches the colder edges of the roof. To prevent ice dams, it’s important to have proper insulation and ventilation in the attic to keep the roof cold and prevent snow from melting. The best insulation to prevent ice dams is one that effectively reduces heat loss from the interior of the building to the attic space. The most common types of insulation used for attics are fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose, and spray foam. Fiberglass batts are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they can leave gaps and are not as effective as blown-in cellulose or spray foam at stopping air leaks. Blown-in cellulose is made from recycled paper and is effective at filling gaps and stopping air leaks. Spray foam is the most effective insulation at stopping air leaks and can be used to create an air barrier in the attic, but it is also the most expensive option.
Ultimately, the best insulation to prevent ice dams will depend on the specific characteristics of your building, including the size and shape of the attic space, the location of vents and other obstructions, and the climate in your area. It’s best to consult with a professional insulation contractor who can assess your attic and recommend the most appropriate insulation for your needs.
How Eavesarmour, a Canadian company helps to prevent roof ICE Dam?
- Eavesarmour is a Canadian company that offers a solution for preventing roof ice dams. Their product is a self-regulating heating cable system that is installed on the edge of a roof to melt ice and snow buildup, thereby preventing the formation of ice dams.
- The Eavesarmour system works by sensing the temperature of the roof and automatically adjusting the heat output of the cables. When the temperature drops below freezing, the cables activate to melt any ice or snow that has accumulated on the roof. Once the temperature rises above freezing, the cables turn off to conserve energy.
- The Eavesarmour system is designed to be easy to install and is compatible with all types of roofing materials. It is also maintenance-free, as the self-regulating cables do not require any adjustments or manual controls. By preventing ice dams from forming on roofs, the Eavesarmour system helps to protect homes from water damage caused by leaks and mold growth. This can save homeowners money in repair costs and help to prolong the life of their roofs.
Overall, the system offers a reliable and effective affordable solution for preventing roof ice dams in cold climates, helping homeowners with their skilled staff using advanced equipment & technology to protect their properties and avoid costly repairs.
