It is common knowledge among homeowners to take precautions before an event happens. During the winter months, there is a high possibility of ice dams forming on homes in this area.

Icing dams cause leaks and permanent damage to your roof in the winter. If you need to get more familiar with the term, there are several causes of ice dams. When melting snow condenses into ice dams, water is trapped and refreezes. A result of this is that ice builds up beneath the flashing and shingles. Over time, melting snow and ice may eventually penetrate your home because of the ice loosening your roof materials. It will be necessary to repair the roof because of this.

If you want to prevent and remove ice dams as quickly as possible, there are steps you can take. Here's what you should know from RRG Roofing:

1. Install Heated Cables

When it comes to winter roof preparation, heated cables are indispensable. Along the edge of the roof, these handy accessories can be attached. They achieve this by stabilizing the roof's temperature, which prevents ice accumulation due to rapid freeze/thaw fluctuations. The warmest edge of the roof is the best place to begin when it comes to preventing ice dams during the winter.

2. Check the Vents

Ice accumulation can be exacerbated by fluctuating temperatures, as we have already seen. Through ventilation, you can prevent excessive heat from melting snow and ice faster than your roof can handle by circulating cold air beneath its surface. As well as ensuring that your kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom vent direct exhaust outward, ensuring they are properly positioned is helpful.

3. Add Extra Insulation

Insulating your attic might seem like a trend here, but it's another way to reduce temperature imbalances. There are several points that determine how much insulation you need, but the main aim is to reduce the amount of heat that your furnace generates in the living space of your home. The heat will warm up the roof if it escapes into the attic, which will cause snow and ice to melt quickly.

4. Keep Your Roof Clear of Snow

Even though it might seem tedious, regular sweeping of snow off your roof is an excellent preventative measure. A roof rake explicitly made for this purpose is available at many hardware stores. Snow and other debris can be removed safely from the ground with a telescoping handle without damaging your roofing system.

Whenever you are clearing your roof, be sure to use common sense. It is never a good idea to climb onto a ladder or to climb up on the roof while there is snow and ice. There are too many risks involved.

5. Take Care of the Chimney

The winter months are likely the time when you use your chimney the most. Your chimney's valley between the frame of the house and the chimney is particularly susceptible to ice accumulation. To reduce this risk, install an effective flashing system and seal any cracks or dents before the cold weather sets in.

Are you having trouble preparing for winter? Get in touch with RRG Roofing today.

For more information, contact RRG Roofing at 678-326-4951. We service areas in Dahlonega, Blairsville, Hiawassee, and Alpharetta, GA.