01/27/2026
❄️ Understanding Ice Dams: What’s Really Happening on Your Roof...
Ice dams form when the upper sections of a roof warm up enough to melt snow while the lower edges, or eaves, remain below freezing. As the melted snow runs down the roof, it reaches the colder area and refreezes, creating a buildup of ice along the gutter line.
This ice prevents proper drainage and causes water to pool behind it. That standing water can sit on roofing materials that aren’t designed to hold it, and even a brand-new roof can be affected. Water may begin to slip under shingles, saturate the underlayment, travel along the roof deck, or find its way into insulation and interior ceilings. The freeze–thaw cycle also adds pressure to the lower part of the roof, which can worsen the issue.
As temperatures shift, we’ve already started receiving calls from property owners noticing new leaks caused by ice dams. These typically show up as ceiling stains, dripping, or moisture in areas that haven’t had issues before.
Understanding what creates an ice dam makes it easier to spot early warning signs. If you’re seeing water where it shouldn’t be, our Revival Roofing team can help you understand what may be happening and guide you on next steps once the weather improves. 🤝 901.742.8080
