Winter in Wisconsin is beautiful—fresh snow, sparkling icicles, and cozy nights in. But behind those picture-perfect scenes lurks a major threat to your home: ice dams.

While icicles might look enchanting, when they’re dangling off your roof, they can signal real trouble. Ice dams can lead to roof leaks, damage to your shingles, and potential structural issues. As your local insurance experts here at the Bremberger Insurance Agency in Oak Creek, we want to help you protect your home before winter weather takes its toll.

Below, we break down seven effective strategies to prevent ice dams—and the costly damage they cause.

Why Ice Dams Are a Problem for Your Roof

Ice dams form when snow on your roof melts, runs downward, and refreezes at the roof’s edge. Over time, a thick ridge of ice builds up. When more melted snow tries to escape, the ice dam blocks it, forcing water back under your shingles.

This can lead to:

• Roof leaks

• Water damage to insulation and drywall

• Wood rot in roof decking

• Mold growth

Preventing ice dams is far easier—and cheaper—than repairing the damage they create. Here’s how to stay ahead of the problem.

 Strategies to Prevent Ice Dams

1. Clear Your Gutters

Clogged gutters trap water, making ice dams much more likely. Clean out leaves, sticks, and debris at least once a year. If your home has overhanging trees or you’ve recently had a storm, clean them more often.

Want to skip the hassle? Gutter-cleaning robots and gutter guards make this chore a lot easier.

2. Check Your Attic

A warm attic is one of the main causes of ice dams. Your attic should stay cold, allowing snow on the roof to remain frozen rather than melting prematurely.

Check for:

• Proper insulation

• Leaks that allow warm indoor air into the attic

• Blocked vents

A well-insulated, well-ventilated attic is key to preventing ice buildup on your roof.

3. Add Roof and Soffit Vents

Roof and soffit vents promote healthy airflow—cool air in, warm air out. This regulates attic temperature and reduces the risk of melting snow refreezing at the roof’s edge.

If you’re unsure whether your home has adequate ventilation, a roofing professional can evaluate and install additional vents as needed.

4. Use Ice-and-Water Barriers

If you’re planning a roof replacement, consider investing in an adhesive ice-and-water shield. This self-sealing underlayment sticks to the roof decking and provides an added layer of defense if water sneaks under your shingles.

It’s a pricier option, but extremely effective—especially for Wisconsin winters.

5. Rake Snow Off Your Roof

No snow = no ice dams. A roof rake lets you safely remove snow from the ground using a long telescoping pole.

Important:
Do NOT climb a ladder to rake your roof. If your home is more than one story, hire a professional.

Pro Tip: Buy your snow rake before the first storm—prices surge once winter hits.

6. Install De-Icing Cables

De-icing (heat) cables melt snow and ice before they can form a dam. Install them in a zigzag pattern along your roof edge and run them through downspouts so melted water doesn’t refreeze.

This is a great option if improving attic ventilation isn’t feasible.

7. Call in the Pros for Steam Removal

If you already have an ice dam, don’t try to chip it off—this can puncture your shingles. Roofing companies use special steam equipment to safely melt ice without damaging your roof.

This is one of the fastest, most effective ways to eliminate an ice dam once it’s formed.

Bottom Line

Ice dams are common in Wisconsin, but they don’t have to damage your home. With the right strategies—whether DIY or professional—you can protect your roof, your walls, and your wallet.

And remember: Your homeowners insurance may cover certain types of ice-dam-related damage.
If you’re unsure what your policy includes, the team atthe  Bremberger Insurance Agency in Oak Creek, WI is here to help you review your coverage and prepare for winter with confidence.

📞 Call us today for a policy review 414-220-0400
📍 Serving Oak Creek and surrounding Wisconsin communities