Ice Dams on Roofs in Grant, MI: Causes and Prevention

An ice dam forms when:

• Heat from inside the home melts snow on the roof.
• Melted water runs down toward the eaves.
• The water refreezes at the roof’s edge, forming a thick ridge of ice.
  

• Icicles hanging from gutters or eaves – A clear sign of trapped water.
• Water stains on ceilings or walls – Leaks often appear in upper floors or attics.
• Sagging gutters – The weight of ice can pull gutters away from the house.
• Cold drafts – Poor insulation and air leaks contribute to dam formation.
  

Ice dams don’t just cause leaks—they can lead to serious home damage in Grant, MI:

• Roof leaks → Damaged insulation, drywall, and ceilings.
• Mold growth → Moisture buildup in the attic creates health risks.
• Shingle damage → Water seeps under roofing and ruins materials.
• Structural strain → Heavy ice adds weight and stress to the roof.
  

The good news: ice dams are preventable. Here’s how homeowners can reduce the risk:

• Improve attic insulation – Keeps heat from escaping and melting snow.
• Seal air leaks – Around light fixtures, chimneys, and attic hatches.
• Ventilate your attic – Cold air circulation prevents uneven roof temperatures.
• Keep gutters clean – Ensures water drains properly instead of refreezing.
• Use a roof rake – Safely remove snow buildup before it melts and refreezes.
  

• Use a roof rake to pull snow off.
• Place calcium chloride (not rock salt) in socks and lay them across the dam to melt ice channels.
  

• Steam removal of ice dams (safe for shingles).
• Installation of heating cables for long-term prevention.
• Roofing repairs if water has already caused leaks.
  

In Grand Rapids, many roofing contractors recommend addressing insulation and ventilation issues as part of a permanent solution.

Ice dams may look harmless from the outside, but in Grant, MI, they’re one of the leading causes of winter roof damage. By improving insulation, ventilation, and maintenance, you can prevent costly leaks and repairs.

Homeowners in Grand Rapids and surrounding areas often rely on professional roofing contractors for safe ice dam removal and long-term prevention. Don’t wait until water damage strikes—plan ahead this winter.