Before you tackle spring projects, consider if icicles were a winter problem  

Did you have icicles form on your roof this last winter? This is a sign of heat and energy loss that could also be damaging to your roof. Icicles hanging from your roof may look pretty, but they often signal underlying problems that could lead to costly damage if left unaddressed. 

If you're getting ready to start home improvement projects for spring, now is the perfect time to evaluate if heat loss contributed to icicles and make the necessary fixes. Understanding what causes icicles, what they mean for your home, and how to prevent them can lead to significant energy savings and prevention of costly home repairs. 

What do icicles mean for your roof and gutters? 

Icicles typically form when snow on your roof melts and then refreezes at the edge or in your gutters. This can happen for a few reasons: 

• Ice dams: Warm air from your attic melts snow unevenly. Water then refreezes at the edge of your roof, forming an ice dam. These dams block proper drainage and can force water back under your shingles, leading to leaks and damage. 
• Improper ventilation: Heat escaping from your attic can cause uneven melting, not only leading to icicles but also reducing the lifespan of your roof. 
• Clogged gutters: If your gutters are clogged, melted snow and ice can’t drain properly, increasing the chance of icicles forming. 

How to prevent icicles and ice dams 

There are several steps you can take to prevent icicles and protect your roof, gutters, and home: 

• Improve attic insulation: Proper insulation reduces heat loss, which helps prevent uneven melting of snow on your roof. It also boosts energy efficiency year-round. 
• Ensure proper ventilation: Proper ventilation lets cold air circulate in your attic, keeping your roof cold enough to prevent snow from melting too quickly. 
• Install gutter guards: Gutter guards prevent debris buildup, allowing melting snow to flow freely through your gutters and downspouts. 
• Schedule regular roof inspections: A professional inspection can catch problems like damaged shingles, poor ventilation, or clogged gutters before they cause bigger issues. 

What happens if you ignore icicles and ice dams? 

Ignoring icicles or ice dams can lead to costly damage. Here’s what might happen: 

• Roof damage: Ice dams can lift shingles, letting water seep into your home. 
• Gutter damage: The weight of icicles and ice can pull gutters away from your house or cause them to sag. 
• Interior water damage: Leaks caused by ice dams can ruin ceilings, walls, and insulation. 
• Energy waste: Icicles and ice dams are a sign that heat is escaping your home. This means money is literally slipping away as your heating costs rise. 

By improving insulation, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining your gutters, you can prevent damage to your roof and save on energy costs. If you have questions about whether you could be spending more on energy than you should or if your home is properly insulated contact our energy advisor, John Scott (Inspector Watts) at 815-858-2207 ext. 1339 or learn more at jcecoop.com/inspector-watts.