Tricks Roofers in St. Lawrence Know: Stopping ice dams before they start

Roofers in St. Lawrence, Pa. are familiar with ice dams, which bring serious leaks and water damage under the roof at the eaves. The dams form when warm air reaches the roof from beneath. This causes melting. The water refreezes at the cold eaves. Resulting dams can channel water into the house.

Some steps to stop ice dams are taken inside the house. Homeowners may be tempted to try temporary repairs themselves. The fastest, best answer is to call a professional roofer or contractor.

Roofer Secrets: Ice Dam Help in St. Lawrence

• Ridge vent and continuous soffit vents. These circulate cold air under the roof.
• Roof hatches or fan openings. Heat from these areas causes melting. Close off with weatherstripped caps made of foil-faced foam board.
• Ducts from kitchen, bath and dryers. They should penetrate the roof or walls. Don't run duct through soffits.
• Attic insulation. Proper insulation on the attic floor helps prevent dams.
• Chimney flashing. Install L-shaped aluminum flashing between chimney and house framing. Seal it with unbroken fire-stop sealant beads. Don't use spray foam or insulation.
• Seal and insulate all ducts. Also caulk with fire-stop compound around all penetrations.

For prompt help with ice dams in St. Lawrence, call Berks County's most trusted roofers - Mast Roofing and Construction, Inc.