Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and wind can cause ice dams on your roof, trapping melting snow and forcing water under shingles, which leads to serious damage.
At ServiceMaster by Zaba, we handle ice dam damage every winter for homes and businesses across Chicago.
We created this guide to help you prevent ice dams and learn how to deal with them if they form.
Key Takeaways
- Use safe methods like roof rakes, calcium chloride pucks, or DIY socks to remove ice dams without damaging your roof.
- Prevent ice dams with heated cables, proper ventilation, and attic insulation to stop water from pooling and freezing.
- If ice dams cause water damage, call ServiceMaster by Zaba - we provide expert cleanup, repairs, and insurance claim support across Chicago and the suburbs: (773) 647-1985
Safe Methods to Remove Ice Dams
1. Roof Rake
A roof rake lets you remove snow while standing safely on the ground. Most models cost $30 to $50 and won’t damage your shingles.
Use it regularly to clear snow and reduce ice dam buildup.
Pros:
- Safe to use from the ground
- Won’t damage roofing materials
Cons:
- Requires some upper-body strength
2. Ice Melting Pucks
Calcium chloride pucks melt channels through ice dams, allowing trapped water to drain.
Just toss the pucks onto the roof, but place them close to snow ridges or tucked near the edge to help keep them in place.
If the wind does blow them off, safely retrieve and reposition them using a roof rake or long-handled tool.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Melts ice and snow safely
Cons:
- May require multiple pucks
- Placement can be imprecise
3. DIY Calcium Chloride Socks
Fill old socks or pantyhose with calcium chloride, tie them off, and place them across the ice dam so part hangs over the gutter.
The salt will slowly melt a path through the ice. Use a rake or pole to position them from the ground.
Pros:
- Offers targeted melting
- Less harmful to shingles and landscaping
Cons:
- May cause minor roof damage over time
Tips to Prevent Ice Dams
1. Install Heated Cables
Heated roof cables melt snow before it can freeze into an ice dam.
Attach them in a zigzag pattern along the roof edges and turn them on 1–2 hours before snowfall.
They work especially well on low-slope roofs.
Keep in mind: Heated cables are effective, but they will increase your energy bill.
2. Increase Roof Ventilation
Proper ventilation keeps your roof cold and prevents warm air from melting snow unevenly.
Roof and soffit vents allow cold air to circulate under the roof and push out trapped heat.
What to watch for:
- Poorly placed vents can let water in during snowmelt
- Homes with angled ceilings or no attic may need custom venting
Pro tip: Hire a licensed roofing or HVAC professional to ensure vents are installed correctly and comply with local Chicago building codes.
3. Add Attic Insulation
Heat rises through your home and escapes through the attic.
Adding more insulation keeps the roof cold and reduces the risk of snow melting and refreezing.
How to check:
- Look for at least 12–14 inches of fiberglass or cellulose insulation
- Blow-in insulation works better than batts, which leave gaps
Best option: Hire an insulation contractor to ensure even, complete coverage throughout the attic. DIY insulation often doesn’t save much and can leave gaps that lead to future problems.
What to Do If an Ice Dam Causes Water Damage to Your Property
If an ice dam has already caused a leak or visible water damage inside your home, act fast to limit the impact and prevent mold.
1. Stop the water source
Use a roof rake or calcium chloride to melt the ice dam and clear a path for water to drain. Avoid using sharp tools that could damage your shingles.
2. Dry out the area
Use fans, dehumidifiers, and towels to dry wet ceilings, walls, or flooring. The faster you dry the space, the lower the risk of mold.
3. Check for hidden damage
Look for signs of water inside walls, around window frames, or in the attic. Stains, bubbling paint, or a musty smell are red flags.
4. Document everything
Take clear photos of all visible damage and keep notes. This will help when filing an insurance claim.
5. Call ServiceMaster by Zaba
Contact a water damage restoration company like ServiceMaster by Zaba.
We’ll remove water, dry the space, handle repairs, and help you file your homeowners insurance claim to make the process easier.
Call ServiceMaster by Zaba for Ice Dam Water Damage Cleanup in Chicago
Ice dams can lead to serious water damage fast - soaked walls, ceilings, mold, and wood rot.
For expert ice dam water damage repair, contact ServiceMaster by Zaba.
We restore homes, condos, businesses, and commercial buildings across Chicago and the suburbs, including Evanston, Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, and more.
Call now for an estimate: (773) 647-1985.
FAQ
What are ice dams?
Ice dams form when heat from your home melts snow on your roof.
The water runs down and refreezes at the colder roof edges, forming a dam that blocks drainage.
This traps water on your roof and can lead to leaks and water damage.
What causes ice dams?
Poor attic insulation and ventilation cause uneven roof temperatures, leading to snow melt and refreezing near gutters. This process creates ice dams that grow over time.
What damage can ice dams cause?
Ice dams lift shingles, cause roof leaks, and lead to ceiling stains, mold growth, wood rot, and damaged gutters.
If left untreated, the water damage can become extensive and expensive.
Can I put salt on my roof to melt ice?
No. Salt corrodes shingles, nails, gutters, and siding. It also harms landscaping.
Use calcium chloride or roof-safe de-icing products instead.
How much does ice dam removal cost?
Professional ice dam removal typically costs $400–$600. DIY methods cost less, around $30–$100 in materials, but can be risky if done incorrectly.
Larger roofs take longer to clear, increasing labor time and cost.
Does homeowners insurance cover ice dams?
Insurance usually covers water damage caused by ice dams, but not the cost of removing the ice itself.
Check your policy and deductible before filing a claim. ServiceMaster by Zaba can assist with documentation and claims processing.
