Why We Only Remove Ice Dams
We stay with one job because an ice dam is a narrow problem with a specific cause. The University of Minnesota Extension describes an ice dam as a ridge of ice at the roof edge that stops melting snow from draining off; the water that backs up behind it can leak into walls, ceilings and insulation.
Extension explains that a dam forms when snow sits on a roof whose upper surface stays above 32°F while the edge stays below it. In many homes, Extension says, the warmth comes mainly from house air leaking into the attic. So taking a dam off fixes this winter's leak, while the warm attic decides whether a new one grows back. Our full Minnesota ice dam removal service covers how the work is done and what affects the price.
How We Work on Every Ice Dam Job
When water is already coming inside, the first goal is a path for it off the roof. Extension notes that a channel cut through the dam lets trapped water drain, but the channel stops working within days, so we treat it as a stopgap and go on to remove the dam itself.
Steam is the method because the ice is bonded to the shingles. Low-pressure steam melts it loose without prying at the roof. Hammers and chisels gouge shingles, salt can stain roofing and harm plants below, and high-pressure washers can drive water under the shingles. Extension warns that even a roof rake may damage roofing materials.
We clear the eave and gutter line so water has somewhere to go. Extension advises drying wet parts of the house right away because ice dam moisture can lead to mold and mildew.
MPR News reported that Minnesota homeowners policies generally pay for water damage from an ice dam but not for removing the dam itself, which insurers treat as maintenance. A Minnesota Department of Commerce spokesperson said a claim can be denied if the insurer argues the home was not maintained.
Licensing Rules for Roof Work in Minnesota
Minnesota Statutes section 326B.802 defines a residential roofer as someone contracting with an owner for work on roof coverings, sheathing, weatherproofing, insulation and repair of roof systems on homes of one to four units. Section 326B.805 says anyone who meets that definition must hold a state roofer, building contractor or remodeler license.
The Department of Labor and Industry adds that most single-skill specialty contractors need no state license, with residential roofers the exception. Whoever you hire for roof ice, ask which Minnesota license they hold and check it with the department before work starts.
The roof itself is built for this climate. The Minnesota Residential Code requires an ice barrier underlayment that runs from the eave to at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line. Steam leaves that layer and the shingles over it in place.
Call for 24/7 Ice Dam Removal in Minnesota
Tell us your city, the kind of roof and whether water is already showing inside.
Call (612) 471-2509Our Service Area in Minnesota
We are a mobile crew that comes to the house, with calls from across the Twin Cities, including Minneapolis, Edina, St. Louis Park, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury, from Shakopee and Savage in the southwest metro, and from St. Cloud and Rochester.
Call Our Crew About an Ice Dam
Someone picks up our line around the clock, every day of the year, holidays included. If water is coming through a ceiling or you can see ice building along the eaves, call our team and tell us what you see from the ground.
Call for Ice Dam Removal in Minnesota
Tell us your city, the kind of roof and whether water is already showing inside.
Call (612) 471-2509