Ice dams are a common winter problem in cold climates. They form when snow melts on the warmer upper sections of a roof, flows downward, and refreezes at the colder eaves. Over time, ice dams can trap water behind them, leading to roof leaks, insulation damage, mold growth, and damaged gutters. Knowing how to safely remove ice dams—and when to call a professional—can help protect your home and prevent costly repairs.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Ice dams typically form due to uneven roof temperatures caused by:
- Heat escaping from the attic into the roof
- Poor insulation or inadequate ventilation
- Snow accumulation combined with freezing temperatures
When the upper roof surface is warm, snow melts and runs toward the edge, where colder temperatures refreeze the water and create a dam. As the ice thickens, melting snow has nowhere to drain, forcing water under shingles and into the home.
Important Safety Considerations
Clearing ice dams can be dangerous. Before attempting removal:
- Avoid climbing onto icy or snow-covered roofs
- Use non-damaging tools—never sharp metal objects
- Do not chip ice aggressively, as this can damage shingles and roofing materials
- Wear slip-resistant footwear and insulated gloves
- Stay clear of falling ice and snow
If conditions are unsafe or the ice dam is extensive, professional removal is the safest option.
Safe Methods to Remove Ice Dams
1. Remove Excess Roof Snow
Removing snow reduces the amount of meltwater feeding the ice dam.
How to do it:
- Use a roof rake with a long handle from the ground
- Pull snow downward—never sideways
- Clear several feet above the roof edge if possible
Roof raking is most effective when done early, before ice dams fully develop.
2. Create Drainage Channels in the Ice
Creating small channels allows trapped water to escape instead of backing up under shingles.
How to do it:
- Fill old socks or pantyhose with calcium chloride ice melter (not rock salt)
- Lay them vertically across the ice dam, extending over the roof edge
- The calcium chloride melts through the ice, forming a drainage path
Important:
Never use sodium chloride (rock salt), as it can damage roofing materials, plants, and metal components.
3. Use Low-Pressure Steam Removal
Steam removal is one of the safest and most effective professional methods.
Why it works:
- Steam melts ice without damaging shingles
- It removes the dam while preserving roofing materials
- It prevents further water intrusion during removal
This method requires specialized equipment and is best performed by experienced professionals.
4. Improve Temporary Attic Cooling
Lowering attic temperatures can slow ice dam growth until removal is possible.
Steps you can take:
- Close attic hatches tightly
- Seal obvious air leaks near attic access points
- Maintain airflow through existing vents
While this will not remove existing ice dams, it helps prevent them from worsening.
Methods to Avoid
Some ice removal methods can cause serious damage or injury and should not be used:
- Chipping ice with hammers or axes
- Using open flames or heat guns
- Pouring hot water on the roof
- Applying rock salt directly to shingles
These approaches can crack shingles, harm roofing underlayment, and increase the risk of leaks.
When to Call a Professional
You should contact a professional if:
- Ice dams are large or extend far up the roof
- Water is leaking into your home
- The roof is steep or difficult to access
- You are uncomfortable working from ladders or slippery ground
Roofing and ice dam specialists have the equipment and experience to remove ice safely without increasing damage.
Preventing Ice Dams in the Future
Long-term prevention is just as important as removal.
Improve Attic Insulation
Proper insulation prevents heat from escaping into the roof and melting snow.
Seal Air Leaks
Seal gaps around attic hatches, light fixtures, and vents to reduce warm air leakage.
Upgrade Attic Ventilation
Balanced intake and exhaust ventilation keeps the roof surface cold and consistent.
Install Ice and Water Shield
This protective membrane under shingles along the eaves helps prevent leaks if ice dams do form.
Conclusion
Clearing ice dams requires patience, proper tools, and a strong focus on safety. Ground-based snow removal, calcium chloride channels, and professional steam removal are the safest ways to address the issue. Just as important, addressing insulation and ventilation problems can help ensure ice dams don’t return next winter.