Minneapolis winters are notorious for heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, which creates the perfect recipe for ice dams. An ice dam forms when melted snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, trapping water behind it. If left untreated, this water can seep under your shingles and into your home.
Here are the top signs you need to watch out for:
- Thick icicles: While they look pretty, large icicles hanging from your gutters are the number one indicator of an ice dam.
- Water stains on ceilings: If you notice brownish rings on your top-floor ceilings or walls, water is already making its way inside.
- Gutters pulling away: The sheer weight of solid ice can bend and rip your gutters right off the fascia board.
The Bottom Line: Don’t try to chip away the ice yourself, as this can permanently damage your shingles. If you spot these signs, reach out to a local professional to have the ice safely steamed and removed.