What Causes Ice Dams
Ice dams form when heat escapes into the attic and melts snow on the upper roof. Water runs down to the cold eave, refreezes, and builds a ridge of ice. Backed-up water can flow under shingles and into walls or ceilings.
Connecticut homes with poor attic insulation, blocked soffit vents, or complex roof geometry see dams more often after heavy snow followed by freeze-thaw cycles.
Damage Ice Dams Can Cause
Stained ceilings, wet insulation, rotted sheathing, and damaged gutters are common results. Repeated damming shortens shingle life at the eave even when interior leaks are not yet visible.
Solutions That Work
Long-term fixes address heat flow: air sealing at the attic floor, adequate insulation, and balanced ventilation. Ice and water shield during re-roofing adds backup protection. Chipping ice from gutters is temporary and can damage roofing — professional assessment is safer.
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