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October 2016

Five tips to prevent ice dams

Ice dams are a significant cause of loss in New England. They can cause leaks, which can result in water damage and expensive repairs. Help your policyholders prevent or mitigate their exposure to ice dams with these tips:

  1. Keep all drains, gutters and downspouts free of debris and vegetation that may restrict proper flow.
  2. Remove or relocate heat sources that are installed in open attic areas directly under the roof, such as an attic.
  3. Insulate light fixtures in the ceiling below an unheated attic space.
  4. If you have vents or other openings into the attic, seal and insulate them so that daylight cannot be seen and airflow is minimal.
  5. If ice dams form around drains, connect heating cables to the drains to prevent ice buildup. Heating cables can also be placed on the roof, connecting them to the drainage system so a path is created for the melting ice to follow.