Fixing an ice dam leak on a Cranford roof after a winter storm

The problem

The ice dam backed water up under the roof and caused a big leak. With water getting in, the house was at risk. It was an emergency roof leak repair, and we had to move fast so the leak didn't do more damage.

What we did

We started by checking how far the water had gotten. Then we fixed the areas it had hit. The point was to keep the house from having water problems down the road.

Materials

Heat gun

Common questions in Cranford

What causes ice dams, and what do they do to a house?

Warm air from inside the house melts the snow on the roof, and that water freezes again at the edges. The ice holds the water back, so it backs up and leaks in.

How do I keep ice dams from forming again in Cranford winters?

Better insulation and ventilation in the attic. They keep the roof at a more even temperature, so you're less likely to get ice dams.

Will my insurance cover storm damage like this?

Usually, yes. Most homeowners' policies cover storm damage, but check your own policy for the details.