How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Commercial Roof This Winter
How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Commercial Roof This Winter
Avoid Costly Damage with These Proven Prevention Strategies
In the Midwest—especially across the Quad Cities—ice dams are a major winter threat to commercial buildings. Formed when rooftop snow melts, then refreezes at the eaves, these icy blockages trap water on your roof, forcing it under seams or flashing and into your building. The result? Leaks, insulation damage, mold, and costly repairs.
The good news is that ice dams are preventable. Here’s how to protect your commercial property before winter hits hard.
1. Improve Roof Insulation to Reduce Heat Loss
Ice dams often start from the inside out. Warm air escaping through the roof melts snow at the peak, which runs down and refreezes at the colder edges. Improving insulation prevents this cycle.
✅ Strategies:
Upgrade attic or upper-level insulation (R-38+ recommended)
Seal gaps around lighting, ductwork, or vents that allow warm air to escape
Use vapor barriers to limit moisture movement from interior spaces
🧱 Building Efficiency Tip: Better insulation also lowers heating costs and improves comfort year-round.
2. Ensure Proper Ventilation in Attic and Roof Spaces
Even if insulation is solid, poor ventilation allows warm air to stagnate under the roof. A balanced airflow system keeps the roof deck cold and prevents uneven snowmelt.
✅ Check for:
Blocked soffit vents
Missing ridge vents or exhaust fans
Adequate airflow between insulation and roof deck
🌬 Commercial Solution: For flat roofs, consider installing mechanical ventilation systems or using thermal breaks to reduce heat buildup.
3. Clear Snow Promptly After Storms
Don’t let heavy snow linger on your roof. The longer it sits, the greater the risk of thaw/refreeze cycles that create ice dams—especially during temperature swings.
✅ Action Plan:
Hire a licensed snow removal service trained in commercial roof safety
Use roof rakes with extended poles for sloped areas
Remove snow uniformly to prevent weight imbalances
⚠️ Caution: Never use shovels or ice picks—these can damage membranes or flashing.
4. Install Heat Cables or Ice Melt Systems
On buildings with recurring ice dam issues, heat cables (also known as heat tape) offer a targeted solution. Installed at roof edges, gutters, or drain paths, they melt snow as it travels—preventing refreezing.
✅ Best Practices:
Use thermostatically controlled systems for energy efficiency
Inspect cables annually for wear or disconnection
Combine with proper drainage for best results
🔌 Note: Only use products rated for commercial-grade roofing applications.
5. Maintain Roof Drainage Systems
Blocked scuppers, gutters, or downspouts can freeze over and back up water onto the roof. Keeping these systems clear is crucial to preventing dam formation.
✅ Checklist:
Clean gutters and scuppers in late fall
Inspect and repair any damaged drainage components
Ensure downspouts are extended away from the building’s foundation
💧 Flat Roof Insight: Consider installing heated drain lines for buildings with chronic freeze issues.
Final Thoughts
Ice dams don’t just damage roofs—they disrupt your operations and rack up repair costs. By taking preventative steps before winter sets in, you can ensure your commercial roof stays dry, stable, and leak-free through the harshest Midwest weather.
Need help winterizing your commercial roof in the Quad Cities?
Twin Bridge Roofing & Construction offers ice dam prevention plans, insulation upgrades, and drainage solutions to protect your property all season long.
📞 (563) 655-4902 | 🌐 www.roofqc.com
