Ice dams are one of Calgary’s most costly and frustrating winter roofing issues—and they’re especially common from December through March, when freeze–thaw cycles peak. Understanding what causes them, how to spot early warning signs, and what to do about them can save you from major water damage and expensive repairs. In this blog, we’ll look at ice dam removal, repairs, and prevention.
What Ice Dams Are—and Why They Form in Calgary
Calgary’s winter weather swings are the perfect recipe for ice dams. During the day, Chinook-influenced warmth melts rooftop snow. At night, temperatures plunge, and that meltwater re-freezes at the roof’s edge. This daily freeze–thaw cycle repeats for months.
Here’s how the problem develops:
- Warm / humid indoor air escapes into the attic, especially through bypasses around lights, vents, and poorly sealed gaps.
- That heat warms the underside of the roof deck.
- Snow melts and runs down toward the colder eaves, where temperatures are still below freezing.
- The meltwater refreezes into a thick ridge of ice.
- More meltwater pools behind this ridge and pushes up under shingles, eventually leaking into ceilings and walls.
- Through winter, ice dams can grow larger every day—especially during Chinook periods that bring mild days and freezing nights.
Signs Your Home Has Ice Dams
Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize they need ice dam removal services until the water starts leaking inside. This season, watch for these clear warning signs:
- Thick, raised ridges of ice forming along roof edges
- Large icicles hanging from gutters or soffits
- Water stains on ceilings, walls, or around window frames
- Cold drafts in upstairs bedrooms or bonus rooms
- Frost, ice buildup, or wet insulation inside the attic
Early detection is important—minor ice dams can be removed before they lead to expensive repairs.
Ice Dam Removal: The Safest Way to Clear the Ice
When you spot an ice dam, fast action matters. The safest and most effective way to remove an ice dam is with the help of professionals.
Why DIY Removal Is Dangerous
Homeowners often try:
- Hammers
- Salt or chemical de-icers
- Chisels
- Roof rakes, often used improperly
Unfortunately, these methods can crack shingles, ruin gutters, void roofing warranties, and create safety hazards if not done properly.
Why Professional Ice Dam Removal Works Best
At No Payne Roofing, we have the skills and tools to effectively remove your ice dams and develop strategies to prevent future damming. Using advanced methods, our technicians will safely remove ice buildup to prevent leaks and further roof damage.
Ice Dam Repair: Fixing Damage Ice Causes
If an ice dam has been sitting on your roof for weeks, there’s a good chance you’ll need ice dam repairs—not just removal.
Common ice-related roofing repairs include:
- Replacing damaged shingles or flashings
- Repairing wet or deteriorated underlayment
- Fixing rotted soffits, fascia boards, or roof decking
- Addressing interior water damage, such as ceiling stains, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall
- Replacing wet attic insulation to restore proper R-value
Ice Dam Prevention: Stopping the Problem for Good
Long-term ice dam prevention doesn’t happen on the roof—it happens inside your attic. The ultimate goal with ice dam prevention is to keep the roof surface cold by reducing heat loss and improving ventilation. Effective prevention includes:
- Insulation top-ups to boost R-value
- Air sealing around attic penetrations, pot lights, bathroom fans, and ductwork
- Improving attic ventilation so cold air flows freely through the space
- Attic inspections during winter to identify hot spots that melt snow
- Removing old, wet, mouldy, or compacted insulation that no longer performs properly
These upgrades are far more cost-effective than repeated emergency removals and interior repairs.
No Payne Roofing: Your Ice Dam Prevention and Repair Specialists
With No Payne Roofing, you get a full suite of winter roofing and attic services designed to stop ice dams and prevent them from coming back. Whether you need ice dam removal, repair, or prevention strategies, we’ve got you covered.
Our services include:
- Ice dam removal
- Winter roof inspections to detect leaks before they spread
- Repair of ice-related roofing and interior damage
- Attic insulation top-ups, air sealing, and ventilation improvements
- Fast, reliable winter emergency service for Calgary homeowners
Book your ice dam inspection before water damage sets in. Contact No Payne Roofing to keep your home dry, protected, and winter-ready.
