How to Break Up Ice Dams on a Roof with Salt

Poor air circulation and insulation in attics can cause thick ice to build up on roof edges during winter. You can address your inside issues anytime, but you need to take quick action to remove ice buildup, or dams, before your house sustains serious damage. When the ice begins to thaw, water can back up underneath your shingles, enter your attic and drip from your ceiling. You can melt the dam with salt, but you must be careful to avoid causing more roof damage. It's a better solution to pull down snow from the roof before ice dams form, or use a chemical de-icer.

Ladder
Nylon stockings
Rock salt
Snow rake or wide shop broom

Instructions

- 1
  Place a ladder against your house, ensuring it is stable. The ladder must be tall enough to extend just past the roofline.
- 2
  Fill several nylon stockings with rock salt. Tie the open end of the stocking to finish each tube.
- 3
  Carry the salt-filled stockings up the ladder. Place the tubes at equal intervals depending on the number of stockings you have, and the length of the ice dam. Consider placing additional tubes in the areas with the thickest ice.
- 4
  Remove snow and melting ice from your roof with a snow rake or wide shop broom. Stand on the ground while using the rake or broom; for your safety, do not attempt this while standing on the ladder.
- 5
  Refill and reposition the salt-filled stockings as needed to finish removing any ice dams.

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