Ice dams form when heat from the house melts snow on the upper roof and the water refreezes at the cold eaves. Water backs up behind the ice and can leak under shingles into walls and ceilings.
We help clear roof snow and open channels through ice dams safely, without chopping into shingles.
What's included
- Roof snow removal
- Ice dam relief and steam-style removal where available
- Clearing around vents and chimneys
- Eave and gutter checks
- Advice on the cause: insulation, ventilation, heat loss
Signs you need this
- Thick ice ridge along the eaves
- Large icicles
- Water stains on ceilings or walls near outside walls in winter
- Snow sliding unevenly or piling at valleys
Don't climb up yourself
Snowy and icy roofs are dangerous, and roof snow can slide all at once. Chopping at ice with hammers or shovels also tears up shingles and gutters. Leave it to a crew with fall protection and the right tools.
Fix the cause
Ice dams usually point to heat escaping into the attic, from thin insulation, air leaks or poor ventilation. Clearing the ice treats the symptom. Fixing the heat loss is what stops it next year.
Snow & Ice Dam Removal near you
We cover 25 towns around Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Carson Valley and the US-50 corridor:
Common questions
When should roof snow be removed?
It depends on your roof's design, the snow and signs like ice dams or leaks. Your building department's snow load rules and a roofer's advice are the best guide.
Is it safe to remove ice dams with salt?
Some products can damage roofing, gutters and plants. Ask a roofer before using them.
Will heat cables help?
They can help in some problem spots, but they don't fix the underlying heat loss.