Q: What causes ice dams in the first place?

Ice dams are usually a symptom of larger issues inside the home , not just snowfall. Common contributing factors include: Inadequate attic insulation Poor attic ventilation Heat loss from the home into the attic Uneven roof temperatures Older roof designs or complex rooflines When warm air escapes into the attic, it melts snow on the roof. That water refreezes at colder roof edges, creating ice dams.

Q: How does steam ice dam removal work?

We use professional low-pressure steam equipment to melt ice safely. The steam removes ice without force, chemicals, or damage to roofing materials. This method is: Safe for shingles, metal roofs, and gutters Environmentally friendly Effective even in extreme cold

Q: Do you remove all the ice from my roof?

Our focus is on removing the ice dams that are trapping water and causing damage. We do not remove all snow from the roof unless specifically discussed, as that can increase risk, isn’t always necessary, and can add time to the job.

Q: Will ice dams come back?

Removal addresses the immediate risk but you should speak with someone that is an expert in roofing and insulation to make sure that the problem is fixed to prevent this happening again in the future and causing continued damage. Ice dams can return if: Weather conditions continue Snow buildup remains Underlying insulation or ventilation issues exist

Question 1

What is an ice dam?

Accepted Answer

An ice dam forms when snow on your roof melts and refreezes at the roof edge. As ice builds up, it blocks water from draining properly, forcing it back under shingles and into your home potentially causing leaks and internal damage.

Question 2

What causes ice dams in the first place?

Accepted Answer

Ice dams are usually a symptom of larger issues inside the home, not just snowfall.

Common contributing factors include:

Inadequate attic insulation
Poor attic ventilation
Heat loss from the home into the attic
Uneven roof temperatures
Older roof designs or complex rooflines

When warm air escapes into the attic, it melts snow on the roof. That water refreezes at colder roof edges, creating ice dams.

Question 3

Why are ice dams a problem and what are the signs of damage?

Accepted Answer

Signs include thick ice along roof edges or gutters, large icicles forming repeatedly, or water stains on ceilings.

Ice dams can cause:

Roof leaks
Water damage to ceilings and walls
Mold and mildew growth
Damaged insulation
Gutter and fascia failure

In many cases, damage is happening before you ever see a leak. Early removal reduces the risk of interior water damage, mold growth, and structural issues caused by trapped water.

Question 4

How does steam ice dam removal work?

Accepted Answer

We use professional low-pressure steam equipment to melt ice safely. The steam removes ice without force, chemicals, or damage to roofing materials.

This method is:

Safe for shingles, metal roofs, and gutters
Environmentally friendly
Effective even in extreme cold

Question 5

Why shouldn’t I chip, salt, or pressure wash ice dams?

Accepted Answer

Chipping ice, using salt, or spraying with a pressure washer can cause more harm than good:

Shingles can crack, lift, or be damaged
Water can be forced under your roof → leaks
Gutters, flashing, and siding can bend or break
Salt and chemicals can corrode materials and harm landscaping
Water sprayed or chipped can refreeze → more ice
Standing on icy roofs is extremely dangerous
These actions may void your roof warranty

Professional steam removal is the safest way to protect your home while removing ice dams.

Question 6

Is steam safe for my roof?

Accepted Answer

Steam ice dam removal is widely considered the safest method for removing ice dams when done by trained professionals. Here’s why:

Low-pressure, high-heat method: Unlike pressure washers, steam doesn’t force water under shingles or gutters. It gently melts ice where it sits.

Protects roofing materials: Steam is safe on asphalt shingles, metal roofing, flashing, gutters, and siding — no cracking, lifting, or corrosion.

No chemicals needed: Unlike salt or ice-melting products, steam doesn’t harm landscaping, concrete, or roofing components.

Environmentally friendly: Steam is water-based, so there’s no chemical runoff to worry about.

Effective in extreme cold: High-temperature steam melts thick ice safely, even in sub-zero conditions.

Controlled application: Professional operators can target the ice dams precisely, minimizing risk of damage to your roof or home.

Immediate results: Steam removal prevents leaks and interior water damage while preserving your roof’s integrity.

Think of it as “safe, targeted melting” without the risks associated with the other approaches.

Question 7

How long does ice dam removal take?

Accepted Answer

Every situation is different. Time depends on:

Thickness of the ice
Length of roof affected
Weather conditions
Roof pitch and access

We’ll review your situation and explain what to expect before starting. All quotes start at a minimum of 2 hours and go up from there.

Question 8

Do you remove all the ice from my roof?

Accepted Answer

Our focus is on removing the ice dams that are trapping water and causing damage. We do not remove all snow from the roof unless specifically discussed, as that can increase risk, isn’t always necessary, and can add time to the job.

Question 9

Will ice dams come back?

Accepted Answer

Removal addresses the immediate risk but you should speak with someone that is an expert in roofing and insulation to make sure that the problem is fixed to prevent this happening again in the future and causing continued damage.

Ice dams can return if:

Weather conditions continue
Snow buildup remains
Underlying insulation or ventilation issues exist

Question 10

Does removing the ice dam fix the underlying problem?

Accepted Answer

No. Ice dam removal is a temporary, damage-prevention solution, not a permanent fix. Our service:

Removes existing ice dams
Stops active leaks and water backup
Protects your roof and interior from further damage

However, without addressing insulation, ventilation, or heat loss issues, ice dams may form again under the right conditions.

Question 11

Is ice dam removal covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. Coverage depends on your policy and the type of damage. We recommend contacting your local insurance provider representative (not the 1-800 number as it will trigger a claim) if you believe damage has already occurred.

Question 12

Is your team insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fox Gutter Cleaning is fully insured.

Ice Dam Removal - NOW OFFERING!

Benefits of Ice Dam Removal with Steam

Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Dam Removal

Get answers to common questions about our winter home protection services.