Ice dams: prevention for interior and Northern B.C. homes
Ice dams form when heat melts snow higher on the roof and the water refreezes at colder eaves. Prevention focuses on reducing attic heat loss, maintaining ventilation and providing appropriate eave protection. The decision should also account for air-seal attic penetrations.
Find the heat source
Air leaks around lights, hatches, ducts and wall tops can warm the roof deck. Insulation gaps and bathroom exhaust in the attic add moisture and heat.
Keep eaves and drainage clear
Gutters do not create ice dams, but blocked or frozen drainage can worsen water backup. Snow-management work must be planned safely.
Roofing details limit damage
Eave membrane, sound flashings and a well-sealed roof reduce the chance that backed-up water reaches the deck, but they do not replace attic corrections.
Details worth checking
- Air-seal attic penetrations
- Correct insulation gaps
- Balance intake and exhaust
- Vent bathrooms outdoors
- Inspect eave membrane during reroofing
- Use qualified snow-removal help
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Share the property, roof type, observed condition and decision timeline. A site-specific review can confirm which parts of the guidance fit and where the scope needs to change. The decision should also account for air-seal attic penetrations.
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