Ice dams and snow buildup on your roof can cause serious damage and expensive repairs. Knowing what to do — and what not to do — can protect your home and keep you safe during cold winters. 

101: What Causes Ice Dams? 

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms on the edge of a roof, blocking water from properly draining off as snow melts and refreezes. This backed-up water can seep under shingles, causing leaks, insulation damage, and interior problems.

While many cases will require professional removal, there is plenty you can do as a homeowner to mitigate and prevent damage.

What Can Homeowners Do?

Before An Ice Dam Forms:

✅ DO: Improve Attic Insulation

Proper attic insulation and venting will minimize the freeze/thaw cycles on your roof that cause ice dams. The insulation stops interior heat from escaping upwards, and vents help keep the attic air cold. 

How to do it right:

• Check the R-value of your attic. You can find the recommended R-value for your region and learn how to measure it from the Energy Star Guide.  
• If the R-value is low, call a roofing or insulation contractor to inspect your attic and make recommendations for improving it.   

✅ DO: Clean Your Gutters

Keep gutters clear of debris to help meltwater flow freely before freezing.

How to do it right:

• Clean gutters annually, in late fall 
• Or call a gutter professional 

✅ DO: Install Heat Cables or Tape

If you have recurring ice dam issues, heat cables or tape are one of the most effective solutions. Placed along the roofline and gutters, the cables will keep water flowing freely through the winter. It can be an investment up front, but will save you from repeat removal services and expensive repairs.  

How to do it right:

• Look for a system with a temperature sensor that automatically turns the cables on and off to reduce energy consumption. 
• Install yourself during warm weather, or call a gutter contractor 
• Place in a zig-zag pattern along the roof edge, and along the gutters and downspouts

✅ DO: Remove Snow After Each Storm

Snow acts like insulation, trapping heat and accelerating melting cycles. Removing it early can help prevent ice dams from forming in the first place. 

How to do it right:

• Use a roof rake with an extended handle from the ground — don’t climb onto the roof. 
• Focus on clearing the lower 3–8 feet of snow along the roof edge.
• If you’re unsure or unable to reach safely, hire a professional.

❌ DON’T: Climb Onto a Snow-Covered Roof

Climbing a snow-covered roof is dangerous:

• Ice hides under snow and offers almost no traction.
• Falls from roofs and ladders cause thousands of winter injuries annually.

Professionals use harnesses, anchors, and proper footwear — gear most homeowners don’t have. If a job requires leaving the ground, call an expert trained in winter roof safety. 

After An Ice Dam Forms:

❌ DON’T: Ignore Signs of Water Entry

If you see ceiling stains, drips, or bubbling paint, don’t wait. These are signals water is already getting in. Document the damage and contact professionals quickly — water damage compounds fast. 

✅ DO: Protect the Interior

If you have an active leak, take action right away to stop damage on the inside of your home. 

How to do it right:

• Place buckets under drips
• Move furniture and clothing away, or cover with tarps
• Make a small hole in ceiling bubbles and catch water in a container 

❌ DON’T: Use Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)

Sodium chloride and magnesium chloride-based ice melters can:

• Damage shingles and vegetation
• Cause harm to children and pets 
• Be ineffective at typical winter temperatures

✅ DO: Use Calcium Chloride With Caution

As a temporary solution, you can try making calcium chloride “ice melt socks.” These will create channels for water to drain off the roof, but they will not remove the dam completely, and they need to be monitored closely. 

How to do it right:

• Fill nylon stockings with calcium chloride-based ice melt.
• Place ladder against the house in a secure spot free of ice and snow. 
• Climb the ladder with a spotter holding onto it from the ground. Do not climb on the roof. 
• Lay the stockings perpendicular to roof edge, overhanging the gutter.
• Watch closely and remove once melted. 
• Rinse the residue with warm water to prevent buildup. 

Important:

Calcium chloride still poses some risk of damaging your roof and gutters, especially if applied directly (without stockings). It is only a partial solution, and if the ice dam is severe or you have an active leak, it’s best to call a professional. 

❌ DON’T: Chip Ice with Hammers, Axes, or Shovels

Using blunt tools is one of the worst ways to remove an ice dam:

• It can crack shingles and damage gutters, voiding your roof warranty.
• It increases the risk of interior water damage later.
• It’s unsafe to swing tools at ice from a ladder, and increases fall risk.
• Falling ice chunks can harm people, pets, and property. 

❌ DON’T: Use High-Pressure Cleaners

High-pressure water or power washers can:

• Strip protective granules from shingles.
• Force water beneath roofing materials.
• Void manufacturer warranties.

✅ DO: Call Professionals for Ice Dam Removal

Why professional removal matters:

• Ice dams are best removed using steam, which melts ice without damaging shingles or gutters. 
• Professionals have the tools and experience to work safely in winter conditions. 

Professional crews protect your roof and help eliminate leaks quickly — a far better option than DIY when ice buildup is significant or water is entering your home.