NEW BLOG PAGE
May 15, 2025
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make That Lead to Ice Dams
If you live in Canada, especially in areas with long, snowy winters, ice damming is more than just a seasonal inconvenience—it can be a serious threat to your home. At 247-Restoration.ca, we’ve seen how easily ice dams on roof edges can lead to interior leaks, water damage, mold growth, and even structural issues.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the most common mistakes homeowners make that contribute to ice dam formation, and what you can do to avoid costly repairs and emergency ice dam removal Aurora down the road.
What Is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam forms when snow on a roof melts due to heat escaping from the attic, then refreezes near the eaves (the colder, lower part of the roof). If you’ve ever dealt with a roof with ice dam, you know it’s a messy, expensive problem.
Now, let’s dive into the avoidable errors that cause this issue in the first place.
Mistake #1: Poor Attic Insulation
When warm air escapes into your attic, it heats the roof deck, causing snow to melt even in below-freezing temperatures.
What to do:
Upgrade older insulation and seal gaps to keep heat where it belongs—inside your home.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Ventilation
Without airflow, warm air will become trapped, heating the roof and accelerating snow melt.
Mistake #3: Clogged or Improperly Installed Gutters
Gutters play a critical role in channeling melted snow away from your roof. But when they’re clogged with leaves, ice, or debris, water can back up and freeze, exacerbating ice damming.
What to do:
Clean your gutters before winter hits.
Mistake #4: Delaying Snow Removal
The more snow, the more potential for melting and refreezing.
What to do:
Use a roof rake to safely remove snow from the lower 3–4 feet of your roof after each heavy snowfall. Never use a metal shovel or go on the roof yourself—this can be dangerous and damage shingles.
Mistake #5: DIY Ice Dam Removal Gone Wrong
When homeowners try to fix a roof with ice dam using tools like axes, hammers, or rock salt, they often cause more harm than good.
What to do:
Call a professional. At 247-Restoration.ca, we use steam-based ice dam removal Aurora techniques that are safe, effective, and won’t void your roof warranty.
Mistake #6: Neglecting Annual Roof Inspections
By then, it’s often too late—and costly.
What to do:
Schedule a professional roof inspection every fall. An expert can spot potential problems—like loose shingles, poor flashing, or inadequate insulation—before they lead to ice dams on roof areas.
Mistake #7: Assuming Ice Dams
Some homeowners think ice dams are only a concern during extreme cold spells. In reality, fluctuating temperatures (common with climate change) make ice damming more likely during milder winters, especially with frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
What to do:
Be proactive year-round. Insulate, ventilate, and maintain your home’s exterior before winter starts—and consider permanent solutions like heat cables or installing ice-and-water shield underlayment.
Ice Dams on Roof Removal: When to Call the Pros
If you spot icicles forming, water stains on your ceiling, or ice buildup on your roof edge, you likely have an active ice dam. This is the time to act fast.
247-Restoration.ca offers 24/7 emergency ice dams on roof removal services aurora throughout the Greater Toronto Area. We use professional-grade steamers to melt away the dam without damaging your roof. We also inspect for hidden moisture and help you prevent the problem from recurring.
Ice damming might seem like just another part of winter, but the truth is: it’s avoidable. By correcting common homeowner mistakes—from poor insulation to clogged gutters—you can protect your home from water damage, save on energy bills, and extend the life of your roof.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re dealing with a roof with ice dam or want to take preventative action, contact 247-Restoration.ca today. Our team is ready to help you handle everything from ice dam removal to long-term prevention strategies.
Share:
More Posts
Stay in the loop for upcoming posts!
Emergency Flood & Water Damage FAQ
1What is water damage restoration service?
Water damage restoration service involves the comprehensive process of repairing and restoring properties affected by water intrusion or flooding. This service encompasses various steps, starting from the initial assessment of the damage extent to the final restoration of the affected area. Professionals in this field utilize specialized equipment to extract water, dry out the affected surfaces, and mitigate further damage. They also address issues such as mold growth and structural damage caused by water. Additionally, water damage restoration experts work closely with insurance companies to streamline the claims process for homeowners or property owners. Overall, water damage restoration service aims to swiftly and effectively restore properties to their pre-damaged condition, ensuring safety, hygiene, and structural integrity.
2How much does water damage restoration cost?
The cost of water damage restoration can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the size of the affected area, the severity of the water intrusion, and the specific services required. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for water damage restoration services. Minor incidents like small leaks or localized flooding may cost less to address, while more extensive damage, such as widespread flooding or structural issues, can result in higher expenses. Additionally, the cost may also include expenses for water extraction, drying equipment, mold remediation, repairs to damaged structures or belongings, and any necessary renovations to restore the property to its pre-damaged condition. It's advisable to obtain multiple quotes from reputable restoration companies to get a better understanding of the potential costs involved based on the specific circumstances of the water damage.
3How to choose a water damage restoration company?
When choosing a water damage restoration company, it's crucial to prioritize reliability, expertise, and responsiveness. Start by researching companies with positive reviews and certifications from reputable organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Look for companies that offer 24/7 emergency services, as water damage requires immediate attention to prevent further harm. Ensure the company has experience handling similar types of water damage to your property and inquire about their process, equipment, and timeline for restoration. Request detailed estimates and compare pricing and services among different companies. Additionally, verify that the company is properly licensed, insured, and bonded to protect yourself and your property throughout the restoration process. By considering these factors, you can confidently select a water damage restoration company capable of effectively restoring your property to its pre-damaged condition.
4Which areas and cities does 24/7 Restoration provide restoration and professional cleanupservices in?
24/7 Restoration offers comprehensive restoration and professional cleanup services primarily within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Serving numerous cities and neighborhoods within Toronto and its surrounding areas, our dedicated team ensures prompt and efficient assistance for any restoration needs. Whether it's emergency flood and water damage, smoke and fire damage cleanup, sewage backup cleanup, mold inspection and remediation, biohazard cleanup or any other restoration requirement, we are committed to providing reliable services to our valued clients across the GTA, ensuring their properties are restored to their pre-damaged state swiftly and effectively. Our expert teams can cover the following cities: Bowmanville, Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, Scarborough, Markham, Richmond Hill, North York, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, Guelph, Kitchener, George Town, Caledon, Milton, Aurora, Newmarket, Georgina, Innisfil, Barrie, Orillia, Gwillimbury.