What You’ll Learn in This Article:
What ice damming is and how it forms.
The risks of heavy snow and ice buildup on commercial and multi-residential rooftops.
How to address these issues safely and effectively.
Proactive strategies to prevent damage before it happens.
How ARS/Global Emergency Management can help when winter weather strikes.
Understanding Ice Damming: What It Is and How It Forms
Ice damming occurs when heat from a building escapes through the roof, causing snow to melt and then refreeze at the colder edges. This creates a ridge of ice that blocks proper drainage, forcing water to back up under roofing materials. Over time, this leads to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs.
For commercial and multi-residential properties, ice damming can be particularly challenging due to larger roof spans, complex drainage systems, and the potential for widespread damage if left unaddressed.
The Risks of Heavy Snow and Ice Buildup
Snow accumulation and ice formation pose serious hazards, including:
Structural Overload & Roof Collapse. Excess weight from heavy snow can stress a building’s structure, potentially leading to roof failure or collapse—especially on older buildings or flat roofs where snow and ice accumulate more quickly.
Water Damage & Leaks. When ice dams prevent melting snow from draining, water finds the path of least resistance—often into the building. This can result in:
Roof membrane deterioration
Interior ceiling leaks
Mold and insulation damage
Electrical hazards
Falling Ice Hazards: Large icicles and ice sheets that form along roof edges and overhangs can break off unexpectedly, creating a serious liability risk for pedestrians, tenants, and vehicles below.
Increased Energy Loss. Ice buildup is often a symptom of poor insulation and ventilation, which forces heating systems to work harder, increasing energy costs.
How to Address Ice Damming and Snow Accumulation
Reactive Measures: Safe Removal of Snow & Ice
When heavy snow and ice accumulation become a problem, immediate action is needed to prevent damage and safety hazards. A qualified service provider will typically:
Remove excess snow using proper techniques to avoid damaging the roof membrane.
Break up ice formations strategically, rather than chipping away aggressively, which can cause further roof damage.
Clear drains, downspouts, and gutters to allow melting snow to escape properly.
Use steam or low-impact methods to safely eliminate ice dams without harming roofing materials.
Technology-Driven Damage Assessment
The most effective winter maintenance strategies use advanced technology to assess risks and identify damage early. Professionals in this field leverage tools such as:
Thermal Imaging Cameras – Detects heat loss, hidden moisture, and ice buildup under roofing materials, revealing weak points before they cause major leaks.
Drone Inspections – Provides a safe, efficient aerial view of large commercial rooftops, helping experts identify problem areas without requiring hazardous on-foot inspections.
Moisture Meters – Measures hidden moisture trapped under roofing materials, indicating where water damage is occurring before visible leaks appear.
Building Sensors & Remote Monitoring – Some properties utilize real-time sensor technology that detects roof strain from excessive snow weight, allowing for proactive removal before structural stress reaches dangerous levels.
Using this technology, professionals can pinpoint risks early, reduce emergency repairs, and make informed decisions on snow and ice removal strategies.
Preventative Measures: Stopping Ice Dams Before They Start
Prevention is the best defense against winter-related roof damage. A proactive approach includes:
Assessing roof insulation and ventilation to reduce heat loss and prevent uneven snow melt.
Installing heat cables in problem areas to ensure proper drainage during freeze-thaw cycles.
Clearing gutters and drainage systems before winter to keep water flowing properly.
Using thermal imaging or drone inspections to detect vulnerabilities before they lead to damage.
When Winter Weather Strikes, We’ve Got Your Back
Winter is unpredictable, but managing snow and ice doesn’t have to be. We’ve seen firsthand how quickly ice damming and heavy snowfall can lead to serious damage—often when it’s least expected. That’s why ARS/Global Emergency Management is always ready to step in when you need us most.
Our team works with property managers and business owners to not only respond to winter weather challenges but also help prevent them from becoming costly disasters. Whether it’s strategic ice removal, snow clearing, or leveraging technology to detect hidden risks, we take a tailored approach to protecting your property.
If you’re dealing with heavy snow, ice damming, or just want to get ahead of winter hazards, let’s talk. We’re here to help—because keeping your building safe is what we do best. Contact us today to learn more!
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