How to Know If I Have Damage From an Ice Dam

Ice dams or water shields refer to rims of frozen, hardened snow found on the edges of slanting roofs. Ice dams occur to the exterior of homes in the winter; they get their name because they act as a dam of frozen ice, preventing water and debris from flowing down and out of the gutter. Ice dams usually happen as a result of insufficient ceiling insulation. If you've discovered an ice dam along your roof, you need to be proactive and check your home for signs of damage.

High-powered flashlight
Ladder

Instructions

- 1
  Go up to your attic with a high-powered flashlight. Turn on all the lights in the attic, illuminating it as much as possible. Shine the light slowly and carefully along the walls and ceiling of your attic. Look for leaks, wet marks and spots and damp areas. These are all typical signs of ice dam damage.
- 2
  Shine your flashlight in the corners of the attic and along the walls and ceiling. Look carefully for signs of water damage from the ice dam, such as chipping paint or plaster.
- 3
  Shine your flashlight slowly a final time carefully around all the walls, corners, floorboards and other areas of the attic. Look for green or black spots of mold, also an indication of ice dam damage.
- 4
  Place a ladder against the side of your home or building and carefully climb up the ladder to inspect your roof. Look for water or ice lodged underneath shingles. Use your flashlight to help illuminate this area.
- 5
  Shine your flashlight carefully around the roof, angling it this way and that. Look for crumbling asphalt or other signs of deterioration, another indication of ice dam damage.

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