Ice Dams on Roofs
BlueTeam in Georgia
Ice Dam Damage
Ice dams, a common yet problematic occurrence in colder climates, present a significant challenge for commercial property owners. These formations emerge on the edges of roofs when snow melts and refreezes, creating a barrier that prevents subsequent meltwater from draining properly.
The cycle begins when heat escaping from the building warms the roof, except at the eaves and causes the snow above to melt. As the water flows down the roof, it reaches the colder eaves and refreezes, gradually forming a dam of ice. This process impedes proper drainage and poses a risk of water seepage into the building.
Understanding the intricacies of this phenomenon, Blue Team offers specialized services to combat the challenges posed by ice dams on commercial properties. Our expertise in restoration, renovation, construction, and roofing services makes us equipped to address the specific needs of commercial buildings.
We provide a comprehensive approach that includes assessment, removal, and repairs to ensure your property is restored to its optimal condition and safeguarded against future occurrences.
What Can Ice Dams Do to Commercial Roofs?
Structural Damage and Roof Deterioration
The accumulation of ice at the roof’s edge can create immense pressure and result in damage to roofing materials such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels. It can also lead to cracks or breaks, allowing water to penetrate and weaken the roof structure.
Moreover, the weight of the ice itself can strain the roof’s support system, leading to sagging or, in extreme cases, collapse. The freeze-thaw cycle associated with ice dams exacerbates existing vulnerabilities in the roofing materials, accelerating wear and tear.
Water Intrusion and Interior Damage
As ice dams block the natural flow of water off the roof, melting snow can back up under roofing materials and seep into the building, which damages ceilings, walls, and insulation. The presence of moisture inside the building also creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, which can compromise air quality and pose health risks to occupants.
Insulation Deterioration
Ice dams can severely impact the thermal efficiency of a building. When water infiltrates and saturates the insulation, it loses its effectiveness, leading to increased heat loss. This not only results in higher energy bills but also contributes to a vicious cycle: as more heat escapes, it further melts the snow on the roof, exacerbating the ice dam problem.
Over time, the repeated wetting and drying of insulation materials can lead to permanent damage and calls for replacement.
Gutter and Downspout Damage
The formation of ice dams can place excessive strain on gutters and downspouts. The weight of accumulated ice can cause gutters to pull away from the building or even collapse and produce additional water management problems and potential damage to the building’s exterior.
Repairing or replacing gutters and downspouts can be an unexpected and significant expense for commercial property owners.
Compromised Roof Lifespan
Thawing and refreezing brings about accelerated aging of roofing materials, especially asphalt shingles, which can crack and lose their granules more rapidly under these conditions. For metal roofs, the expansion and contraction associated with temperature fluctuations can also cause loosening of fasteners and seams.
Increased Maintenance and Repair Costs
Finally, ice dams can lead to a substantial increase in maintenance and repair costs. The need for regular inspections and repairs due to water damage, structural issues, and compromised insulation adds up over time. The costs associated with emergency repairs, such as immediate ice dam removal or fixing a sudden leak caused by water backing up, can be significant as well.
These expenses can strain the maintenance budget of a commercial property, diverting funds from other necessary upkeep or improvement projects.
How Does Our Team Address Roof Damage Caused by Ice Dams?
In-Depth Assessment and Analysis
Blue Team’s approach begins with a meticulous assessment of the affected roof. Our team employs diagnostic tools to detect underlying moisture and insulation issues that are not visible to the naked eye. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to understand the full extent of the damage, including any potential structural concerns hidden beneath the surface.
By analyzing the roof’s overall condition, including its age, material composition, and previous repair history, we develop a targeted strategy that addresses both the immediate damage and underlying causes.
Precision Ice Dam Removal
The removal of ice dams is a delicate process that requires expertise and precision. Blue Team utilizes advanced steam-heating technology, which provides a safe and effective method for melting the ice without risking damage to the roofing materials. This technique is preferred over more abrasive methods, such as chipping or mechanical removal, which can harm the integrity of the roof.
Our technicians control the steam application to ensure thorough removal of the ice dam while preserving the roof’s structure.
Comprehensive Repair and Restoration
Following the removal of ice dams, our team undertakes a thorough repair and restoration process, where we fix the visible damage and address any underlying issues that may have been exacerbated by the ice dam.
We replace damaged shingles, tiles, or metal panels with high-quality materials that match the existing roof for a seamless repair. For interiors affected by water intrusion, we conduct repairs on ceilings, walls, and insulation, employing techniques to prevent mold growth and restore the space to its pre-damage condition.
Structural Reinforcement and Waterproofing
Recognizing ice dams can compromise the structural integrity of a roof, our team evaluates and reinforces areas weakened by the ice. This may involve strengthening roof trusses or rafters, as well as applying waterproofing membranes under the roofing material to provide an additional layer of protection against water intrusion.
Are You Grappling with the Challenges Posed by Ice Dams on Your Roofs?
Our expertise in restoration, renovation, construction, and roofing services positions us uniquely to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a thorough assessment and receive a customized quote.