Roof Ice
Roof ice is caused as snow accumulates on a residential or commercial roof and when cycles melting and refreezing occur. In theory, the snow should melt off the roof, run into the gutters and flow harmlessly away through the downspouts, but refreezing occurs. The natural process only occurs when the outside temperatures are favorable. 

How Roof Ice and Ice Dams are Formed
With the recent extreme cold temperatures and multiple snow-storms, we have had more freezing conditions than thawing.  When this happens, the freezing process starts at the base of the downspouts and continues up and into the gutter.  Once the gutter freezes solid, the ice starts to back up onto the roof creating an ice dam. 

When the outdoor temperature allows for a natural melting process, any snow or ice above the ice dam will start to melt first.  The melt, having no way to escape the roof due to the frozen solid gutter and downspouts, will get stuck at the ice dam.  This roof ice continues to build up the thickness of the dam, and back up into the roof.  If the roof is not properly protected against such ice dams, then the natural melting process of the roof ice will allow water to get into the roofing system and cause major interior or possible structural damage due to the added weight load of the ice dam itself.   
 
We can help prevent or minimize the damage from this roof ice phenomenon. We offer safe, emergency snow and ice dam removal at competitive rates.  Call Division 7 Roofing at 740/965-1970.