Snow and ice are a part of the long, cold winters here in St. Paul as well as across the state of Minnesota. As a homeowner you may or may not have to deal with the very real problem of ice dams. Ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN as well as across the state is an important part of protecting your roof and your entire home from damage that can easily occur.
There are several reasons why ice dams can form. One is that gutters are not properly cleaned in the fall and the blocked gutters create standing water that freezes. As snow melts off the roof the gutters don’t drain it away, allowing it to build up and pool water up and under the shingles. This in turn leads to water damage and possible significant roof and shingle damage.
Another reason for ice dam build-up is with excessive snow and melting and freezing conditions. Regardless of the reasons ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN is something that everyone should know about.
Chipping and Digging Out
The least effective and the most problematic way to deal with ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN is with chipping out the ice or trying to dig it out. Not only will this not remove all the ice but it is very likely to cause damage to your gutters and your roof as well. While you may see homeowners outside trying this method of ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN it is not going to be effective.
Steaming
The most effective, efficient and safest way to complete ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN is to use steam. Commercial steamers that cover a large surface area of the gutters and roof can be brought in to heat the area and allow all the ice to melt. By systematically moving across the problem area the professionals not only remove the existing ice dam but they can free up the blockages that are contributing to the problem.
Getting a professional company in that specializes in ice dam removal in St. Paul, MN as soon as the problem is noted is always the best possible idea. Make sure you check your roof regularly, especially if you notice ice building in your gutters or on your roof.
