Guides ยท Safety
Ice Dam Prevention Basics
Prevent roof ice dams
This guide explains preventing ice dams: keep attic cold with insulation and ventilation, seal warm air leaks, clear roof snow safely, and use melt cables only as a backup.
- ice dams
- roof
- insulation
- ventilation
- snow removal
Keep attic cold
Add insulation and ventilation to minimize heat escaping to the roof.
Seal air leaks
Seal gaps around lights, hatches, and ductwork into the attic.
Manage snow
Use a roof rake from the ground to clear snow; avoid climbing on icy roofs.
Use cables as last resort
Heat cables can help but should not replace insulation/ventilation fixes.