Ice Dams: How They Cause Roof Leaks & How CRS Roofing Can Fix the Problem

Ice dams are one of the most common causes of winter roof leaks in our region. Homeowners often assume the problem is a failing roof — but in many cases, the real issue starts with heat loss, poor insulation, and frozen gutters.

At CRS Roofing, we help homeowners stop ice dams at the source by addressing the conditions that cause them — not just the damage they leave behind.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam forms when snow on your roof melts due to heat escaping from your home, then refreezes at the colder roof edge or inside the gutter system. Over time, this ice buildup creates a “dam” that blocks proper drainage.

As snow continues to melt, water has nowhere to go — so it backs up underneath shingles and into your home.

How Ice Dams Cause Roof Leaks

Ice dams don’t usually mean your shingles are defective. Even a brand-new roof can leak if ice dams are present.

Here’s how the damage happens:

1. Heat Escapes from the Home

Warm air rises and escapes through:

  • Poor attic insulation

  • Air leaks around lights, vents, and attic access

  • Inadequate ventilation

This heat melts the snow on your roof.

2. Melted Snow Refreezes at the Roof Edge

The lower edge of your roof and gutters stay colder. When water reaches this area, it refreezes and begins to build up into solid ice.

3. Water Backs Up Under Shingles

As the ice dam grows:

  • Meltwater pools behind it

  • Water is forced under shingles

  • Moisture penetrates the roof deck



This leads to:

  • Ceiling stains

  • Wall damage

  • Mold growth

  • Insulation saturation

Why Ice Dams Are So Common in Our Area

Ice dams are especially common in regions with:

  • Heavy snowfall

  • Freezing overnight temperatures

  • Frequent freeze-thaw cycles

Homes with older insulation, shaded rooflines, or clogged gutters are at even greater risk.

How CRS Roofing Fixes Ice Dam Problems — the Right Way

At CRS Roofing, we don’t believe in temporary fixes. We focus on long-term solutions that address the true causes of ice dams.

1. Proper Attic Insulation & Air Sealing

In many homes, ice dams begin with heat loss from the attic.

We can:

  • Improve attic insulation levels

  • Seal air leaks around penetrations

  • Help regulate attic temperature

This reduces snow melt at the roof surface — stopping ice dams before they start.

2. Heat Cable (Heat Cord) Installation

In some situations, heat cable is an effective targeted solution.

Heat cable:

  • Creates channels for melting ice

  • Allows water to drain safely

  • Is ideal for problem areas like valleys, dormers, and eaves

This is often used when insulation upgrades alone aren’t enough or when roof design creates unavoidable cold spots.

3. Heated Gutter Guard Systems

One of the most effective long-term solutions is heated gutter guards.

Heated gutter systems:

  • Prevent gutters from freezing solid

  • Keep meltwater flowing freely

  • Reduce ice buildup at the roof edge

  • Eliminate dangerous icicles

By maintaining a clear drainage path, heated gutter guards stop water from backing up under shingles — even during extreme winter weather.

Why One Solution Alone Isn’t Always Enough

Ice dam prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Some homes need:

  • Insulation improvements

  • Others need heat cable

  • Many benefit from a combination of insulation upgrades and heated gutter systems

CRS Roofing evaluates your home and recommends the right mix of solutions for lasting protection.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs of Ice Dams

If you notice:

  • Icicles forming along the roof edge

  • Water stains on ceilings or walls

  • Ice buildup inside gutters

  • Dripping during winter thaws

Your home may already be experiencing ice dam damage.

The longer the issue continues, the more expensive repairs can become.

Ice Dam Solutions from CRS Roofing

At CRS Roofing, we specialize in identifying the causes of ice dams and installing proven solutions that protect your roof, gutters, and home.

We don’t just fix leaks — we prevent them.

 Contact CRS Roofing today to discuss ice dam prevention, insulation improvements, heat cable installation, or heated gutter guards — and protect your home from winter damage before it starts.