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How to Avoid Ice Dams

Those icicles running along the perimeter of your roof might seem harmless and even look sightly, but these are the initial signs of the formation…

May 05, 2026
How to Avoid Ice Dams

Those icicles running along the perimeter of your roof might seem harmless and even look sightly, but these are the initial signs of the formation of ice dams. These icicles will eventually build up until the top of gutters or lower edge of the roof is covered in ice. Ice dams can damage shingles, flashings, and gutters. They can also cause water damage in your attic and home, leading to sagging ceilings, peeling paint, and warped floors. If you are wondering what causes these icicles and ice dams and want to protect your property against them, then continue reading. If you are worried about damaged plumbing, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to consult with a dedicated plumber.

Worried About Plumbing Leaks?

Freezing temperatures are just as bad for your plumbing. If you are worried that your pipes might be damaged and leaking, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to speak with a representative. We can schedule an appointment or have a nearby plumber dispatched to your location as soon as possible.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

How to Avoid Ice Dams

What Are Ice Dams?

You have probably noticed icicles building up along the eaves of your roof but rarely do people notice the full picture. Behind those icicles is more ice. As time goes on, the ice builds larger and larger, eventually forming a "dam."

How Do Ice Dams Form?

Ice dams form when the outdoor temperature is below freezing, or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, while the temperature of the roof is above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. When snow falls onto the roof, it melts and runs down the surface of the roof until it reaches the eaves and gutters where the water re-freezes. This process continues and the ice builds up until a "dam" forms and blocks subsequent runoff. The subsequent water seeps through shingles, refreezes, and expands the shingles. Eventually that water makes its way into the attic, wall cavities, and the rest of your home.

Getting Rid of Ice Dams

Hacking away at the ice dams with a chisel or hammer is going to do more harm than good as it can damage the roofing. Throwing salt on the ice can also be damaging. Here are some stop-gap measures you can take.

Bring a box fan into the attic and aim it at the portion of the roof that is leaking in. This should freeze the water in its tracks to stop the leaking. Next, use a long-handled roof rake to pull of the snow on the roof. There are rakes with wheel for this specific job. To get rid of the ice, use calcium chloride or ice melt product.

How to Prevent Ice Dams

Prevention is better than cure, however. For a permanent fix, you are going to have to ensure the roof is at the same temperature as the eaves. Do this by increasing ventilation, adding insulation, and sealing off air leaks that might be warming the underside of the roof. Install attic floor insulation to keep the heat in the rest of the house from rising to the attic and make sure there is ventilation that circulates cool air from the eaves to the top of the roof.

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