Ice Dams: What They Are, Why They’re a Problem, and How to Prevent Them
Colorado winters bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and big swings between day and night — the perfect conditions for ice dams to form on homes along the Front Range. While they may look harmless at first, ice dams can cause serious and costly damage if left unchecked.
Here’s what homeowners should know about ice dams, how to prevent them, and when to call a professional.
What Is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam forms when snow on your roof melts, flows down toward the eaves, and then refreezes near the edge of the roof. Over time, this refrozen water builds up into a ridge of ice.
As the ice dam grows, it blocks melting snow from draining properly, forcing water to back up underneath shingles and into the roof system. This can lead to leaks, damaged insulation, and interior water damage — even when the roof itself appears to be in good condition.
Why Ice Dams Form
Ice dams are usually caused by uneven roof temperatures, not just cold weather. Common contributors include:
Heat escaping from the attic, warming the upper roof surface
Poor or insufficient insulation
Inadequate attic ventilation
Heavy snow accumulation followed by freeze–thaw cycles
When the upper roof warms enough to melt snow but the eaves stay cold, ice dams are likely to form.
Problems Ice Dams Can Cause
Ice dams are more than a nuisance. They can cause:
Roof leaks as water is pushed under shingles
Damaged insulation, reducing energy efficiency
Stained ceilings and walls
Mold and mildew growth
Rotting roof decking and fascia
Gutter damage or failure
In many cases, the damage continues long after the ice melts — often going unnoticed until spring.
Signs You May Have an Ice Dam
Watch for these warning signs during winter:
Thick ice buildup along roof edges or gutters
Icicles forming unevenly or excessively
Water stains on ceilings or exterior walls
Peeling paint near rooflines
Damp or frosty attic insulation
If you notice any of these, your roof may already be at risk.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
The most effective way to prevent ice dams is by addressing the root causes, not just the ice itself.
Improve Attic Insulation
Proper insulation helps keep heat inside your home and prevents snow from melting unevenly on your roof.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Balanced intake and exhaust ventilation keeps roof temperatures consistent and reduces freeze–thaw cycles.
Seal Air Leaks
Sealing gaps around vents, chimneys, and attic access points stops warm air from escaping into the attic.
Maintain Gutters
Clear gutters allow melting snow to drain properly before refreezing.
Install Ice & Water Shield
This waterproof membrane adds extra protection under shingles at eaves and valleys — a critical defense in Colorado’s climate.
Why a Professional Inspection Matters
Ice dams often indicate hidden roofing or attic issues that aren’t visible from the ground. A professional inspection can identify:
Insulation deficiencies
Ventilation problems
Roof or flashing vulnerabilities
Early signs of water intrusion
At AquaDuct Roofing & Exteriors, we provide thorough winter and post-winter inspections to help homeowners catch problems early — before they turn into costly repairs.
Schedule an Ice Dam or Winter Roof Inspection
If you’ve experienced ice buildup this winter or want to prevent problems before the next storm, AquaDuct Roofing & Exteriors is here to help.
Our experienced team understands Colorado weather and builds roofing systems designed to withstand it.
Contact AquaDuct Roofing & Exteriors today to schedule a roof inspection and protect your home through the rest of winter and beyond.