Ice Dam Prevention: Protecting Your Pennsylvania Home from Winter Roof Damage

Ice dams are one of the most common problems for residential roofing across PA during winter. They can lead to roof leaks, interior water damage, mold, and pricy roof repair.

That’s why Fortified Roofing created this blog; we’ll explain what ice dams are and how you can prevent them and protect your home from winter roof damage.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam forms when snow on your roof melts and refreezes at the eaves. This creates a ridge of ice that prevents proper drainage. As melted snow backs up behind this ridge, water can seep under shingles and into your home.

Ice dams are especially common on homes with weak attic insulation, inadequate roof ventilation and older roofing systems.

How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof

It’s all about focusing on temperature control and water flow.

1. Improve Attic Insulation

Insulation keeps warm air inside your home, preventing snow from melting unevenly on your roof.

2. Ensure Proper Roof Ventilation

Ventilation allows cold air to circulate through your attic, keeping the roof surface uniformly cold.

Ventilation Type	Purpose
Ridge vents	Release warm air from the attic
Soffit vents	Draw cold air into the attic
Gable vents	Improve cross-ventilation

3. Install Ice + Water Shield

An ice and water shield is a waterproof underlayment installed beneath roofing shingles. It provides a nice second layer of protection!

4. Keep Gutters Clear

Clogged gutters trap water, which freezes and worsens ice dam formation. Before winter …

• Remove leaves and debris
• Check downspouts for blockages
• Repair sagging or damaged gutters

Clean gutters help melted snow drain safely away from your roof.

DIY Ice Dam Removal – Don’t Risk It!

Many homeowners try to chip away ice dams themselves, but this can cause more harm than good.

Common DIY risks include damaging shingles or flashing, creating roof leaks, and personal injury from falls or tools, whereas expert roofers use safe, non-destructive methods to tackle ice dams.

Schedule a Winter Roof Inspection Today with Fortified Roofing!

Ice dam prevention is most effective when addressed before damage occurs. If you’re concerned about winter roof damage or want to prepare your home for future PA winters, call Fortified Roofing to schedule a FREE professional roof inspection.

Let’s make sure your home’s fortified for winter – contact us today!