Maine Winter Problem

Ice Dam Problems in Maine

Ice dams cause significant water damage to Maine homes every winter. Understanding causes, prevention, and safe removal methods protects your home and saves thousands in repair costs.

What Are Ice Dams?

Ice dams are ridges of ice that form at roof edges, preventing melting snow from draining properly. As water backs up behind the dam, it seeps under shingles, through the roof deck, and into your home causing:

Interior water damage and staining
Mold and mildew growth in attics
Insulation damage reducing efficiency
Gutter and downspout damage
Thousands in repair costs if untreated

Emergency Ice Dam Removal

Active leak or visible ice dam? Call now for same-day emergency service. We use professional steam removal equipment that's safe for your roof.

Emergency: (207) 530-8362

Common Causes in Maine

Heat escaping through inadequate attic insulation
Poor attic ventilation trapping warm air
Roof valleys and lower-pitch sections
North-facing roof slopes with less sun exposure
Clogged gutters preventing drainage

Prevention Methods

Proper attic insulation (R-60 recommended for Maine)
Ridge vent and soffit ventilation systems
Ice and water shield at roof eaves
Heat cable installation in vulnerable areas
Regular gutter cleaning before winter
Professional roof inspection annually

Ice Dam Questions

What causes ice dams on Maine roofs?

Ice dams form when heat escaping through the roof melts snow, which refreezes at cold eaves creating ice barriers. This prevents proper drainage, forcing water under shingles and into your home. Maine's heavy snowfall and temperature fluctuations make ice dams particularly problematic.

How do I safely remove ice dams?

Never use hammers, axes, or roof rakes which can damage shingles. Professional steam removal is the safest method. GraniteShield uses specialized low-pressure steam equipment that melts ice without roof damage. Emergency service available throughout winter.

Can ice dams be prevented?

Yes, proper prevention includes adequate attic insulation, ventilation, and ice & water shield installation. During roof replacement, we install comprehensive ice dam prevention systems. Heat cables provide additional protection for vulnerable areas.

Protect Your Maine Home This Winter

Schedule a pre-winter inspection to identify vulnerabilities and install prevention systems before ice dams form. Emergency removal available 24/7.

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