How To Remove Ice Dams From Your Roof

Worried about ice weighing your gutters down and pulling them away from your roof?

Ice usually tends to collect on some roofs near the edges. There are things that you should address to determine the underlying cause of the ice dam, but you should also get the current ice dam removed. If you leave an ice dam on the roof it can cause you to develop a leak. You must also use caution when removing an ice dam as well because you can damage the roofing system.

Here are some of the best ways to get rid of ice dams:

You can temporarily get rid of ice dams by melting them away. Here are 3 safe ways your Roofing Professional can remove an ice dam from your roof:

Use hot water

Running hot water over the ice dam, gently, this will melt it and allow the water to drain out through the gutters.

Install heat cable

Heat cables can be installed on your roof in the summertime which will then be there for when cold weather and ice arise. Your roofing professional can recommend either a permanent or temporary installation one of which will solve your problem. Roofers also may use heat cables to prevent ice dams from forming and drainpipes from freezing on commercial roofs.

Remove snow

If the weather is going to get warmer and the snow is starting to melt your roofing professional may choose to remove the rest of the snow/ice from the roof. If the snow and ice is not removed the sun melting the ice and snow could cause another ice dam when it refreezes in the eaves. The NRCA does recommend that some snow be left on the roof to prevent damage to the roofing material, that way the roof shovel does not come in direct contact with the materials. Please remember that only a professional can safely remove snow from the roof with a shovel and they must exercise a lot of caution to prevent damage.

Is Your Roof Ready For Winter?

Getting your roof winter ready does not have to be nerve-racking for you, Middle Creek Roofing is here to help!

Contact a professional roofing company

It is always best to contact a roofing professional for roofing issues but if you are unable to do so and would like to tackle the project yourself, here are some tools you would need to remove the ice dams yourself:

Ladder
Garden Hose

Make sure that your ladder is securely placed to prevent slipping. You will need to make sure that you have warm/hot water coming from your hose to let it run over the frozen area.

It is NEVER a good idea to use a pick or other tool to chip the ice away. This may remove the ice but could result in damaged roofing and or gutters. You should also avoid using any type of chemicals to remove the ice. This can also have a negative effect on roofing shingles especially and can actually void your manufacture warranty. (If applicable)

Prevent ice dams permanently by calling your Roofing Professional and have them assess your roof to find the root cause of the ice damming and make any necessary corrections. Proper ventilation as well as regular gutter maintenance can help prevent ice damming.

Need help with your ice dams?

Call Middle Creek Roofing at 717-949-7905 and have one of our Roof Technicians come out and take a look at it for you!

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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Got a recommendation to go with MCR, we didn’t know our home came without a ridge cap installed, til the rain started coming into the house. These guys were so quick the estimates, returning phone calls and getting the work done. We got a ridge vent and cap replacement. Didn’t need to spend more than what just needed repaired. Will be recommending them to everyone. Will be back in the future for more work. Thank you!
  
 
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Everything from the appointment to taking my payment was handled quickly and efficiently. Kyle was knowledgeable, personable, and made the whole experience incredibly easy. Awesome customer service from start to finish! I would absolutely recommend Kyle and Middle Creek Roofing!
  
 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The entire team at Middle Creek Roofing was phenomenal. They replaced our roof in Lancaster, PA and we could not be more satisfied with the result. Janine made sure we were updated every step of way so we knew exactly what to expect and when to expect it. When the Crew arrived on install day they knew all the details of the project. They were kind, courteous of our surroundings, and very tidy while working. The clean up was flawless. 10/10 I would recommend Middle Creek Roofing for your next roof replacement!
  
 
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They did a great job! They were super professional, very respectful of the property, cleaned up everything afterwards, and I can’t believe how fast they were. The flashing around the chimney and windows looks excellent, and the shingles are lying down the way they’re supposed to!

Matt Tilley was our very professional and personable contact person. He got up on the roof and took videos of everything so we could really see what the issues were, and then he explained the whole roofing process really well to us.  He also provided a follow up video so that we could see what the finished product looked like from up on the roof, which was really gratifying and helpful.

We are very happy with this company and our new roof!

Why Homeowners Choose Middle Creek Roofing

Superior Customer Service

As a valued customer, your needs come first. We guarantee clear communication, punctuality, and professionalism through every stage of your project.

Quality Products

We use the highest-quality roofing materials from leading manufacturers such as CertainTeed, GAF, Owens Corning, and TAMKO to ensure every repair, replacement, and installation lasts for years to come.

Competitive Warranties

We stand behind our quality products and timeless Amish craftsmanship, which includes the industry’s best manufacturer and labor warranties. We offer 50-year protection on all roofing installations and replacements, plus an extended labor warranty for your peace of mind.

Highly Skilled Roofers

Our roofing team has the training and experience required to handle projects of any size and complexity. We hold all necessary insurance, licensing, and certifications so you’re not liable if any issues arise.