How to Make Icemelt Socks

Ice dams -- the buildup of ice in gutters -- are a common problem in Northern climates. A common solutions is to put an icemelt sock full of calcium chloride de-icer on the roof, lying vertically across the ice dam. This will melt a channel in the ice dam and allow water to run down into the gutter as it is supposed to when the ice melts.

Porous nylon mesh or knit fabric (similar to pantyhose or mosquito net)
Scissors
Sewing machine
Cotton or nylon cord
Safety pin

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the fabric on a flat, smooth surface, right side down.
- 2
  Cut a rectangle 16 inches long and 8 inches wide.
- 3
  Cut a circle with a 5-inch diameter.
- 4
  Stitch the lengthwise sides of the rectangle together with a 1/2 inch seam allowance to make a tube.
- 5
  Stitch the circle to one opening of the tube with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
- 6
  Fold the top of the other end of the tube over 3/4 inch and stitch down. Leave an opening at the seam.
- 7
  Cut 16 inches of cord. If it is nylon cord, burn the ends to prevent it from unraveling.
- 8
  Put a safety pin on one end of the cord and use it to thread the cord through the drawstring channel you just made.
- 9
  Tie the ends of the cord together.
- 10
  Fill the icemelt sock with calcium chloride de-icer.
- 11
  Put it on your roof, lying vertically across the ice dam.

How to Make Paths in Snow

How to Make Homemade Brine Solution for Sidewalks and Driveways

Snow Removal