Each winter, ice dams and resulting water intrusion damage thousands of homes. This series of article explains how ice dams occur, how to prevent and what materials are needed to get the job done right and to code.

Ice Dams

In this article a pro explains why ice dams are not a roofing problem; they’re an air-sealing problem.

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Unintended Consequences of an Efficient Attic

This article offers an interesting look at what can happen when you solve ice dams problem by creating an extremely well insulated attic.

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Preventing Ice Dams

An expert on insulating homes explains the four steps to preventing ice dams and the damage they cause. The article also covers cathedral ceilings.

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Ice Barriers Explained: What Materials Can You Use?

An experienced builder explains that while the IRC lists two options for an ice barrier, other options may be acceptable too.

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Framing a Cold Roof

The author explains how he builds a double-layer roof that allows unimpeded air flow from eave to ridge, keeping the roof deck cold and preventing ice dams. Sleepers consisting of 2x4s on edge separate the two roof decks.

Read this online-members article here.

BONUS CONTENT

This “All About Ice Dams” slideshow has even more articles covering ice dams and how to prevent them.

View this slideshow here.