Skip to content 
This guide explains how to remove ice dams on your roof safely and effectively, and when it’s time to call an ice dam removal company for help.
Winter can be tough on your roof. When snow melts on your roof and refreezes along the edges, it forms ice dams—thick, heavy blocks of ice that stop water from draining.
Instead of flowing off your home, water gets trapped and starts leaking inside. This can lead to stained ceilings, peeling paint, mold, and even ruined insulation.
The good news? You can take steps to remove ice dams and prevent more damage. Below is an easy-to-follow guide on how to do so.
Table of Contents
How to Remove Ice Dams on Your Roof
1. Start by Removing Some of the Snow
The first step is to get rid of the snow sitting on your roof. Snow is what keeps melting and refreezing, so removing it slows down the ice dam.
Use a roof rake:
- Stand safely on the ground.
- Pull snow down toward you.
- Clear about 3–4 feet above your gutters.
This helps your roof stay colder and reduces how much water melts and refreezes into ice.
2. Create a Path for Water to Escape
If water is stuck behind the ice dam, you can melt a small path so it can drain.
The safest quick fix is to pour warm water (not boiling) over a narrow section of the ice. This melts a channel that lets trapped water out.
It’s not a permanent solution, but it helps prevent leaks until the ice dam can be fully removed.
3. Use Calcium Chloride to Melt the Ice Slowly
Calcium chloride works well for melting ice without harming your shingles.
Here’s the simple method:
- Fill a sock or pantyhose with calcium chloride.
- Tie the end.
- Lay it vertically across the ice dam, a little past the roof edge.
Over time, it melts through the ice and creates a drainage path.
Do not use rock salt. It damages roofs, gutters, and plants.
4. Avoid Breaking the Ice Yourself
Trying to chip away ice with a hammer or shovel may seem fast, but it’s risky.
You could:
- Crack your shingles
- Damage your gutters
- Cause sharp ice chunks to fall
- Slip and get hurt
Brighton roofs can be steep and icy in winter, so leave the heavy ice to professionals.
5. Fix the Root Problem: Heat Loss in Your Attic
Most ice dams happen because warm air escapes from your home into your attic.
When the top of your roof gets warm, snow melts. Then the melted water runs down and refreezes at the cold edges.
Improve your attic to help prevent this:
- Add more insulation
- Seal gaps where warm air escapes
- Make sure your attic has good ventilation
A balanced attic temperature keeps your whole roof colder—and stops ice dams from forming in the first place.
Call a Professional Ice Dam Removal Company When Needed
Some ice dams get too thick or too dangerous to handle on your own. That’s where professional ice dam removal contractors come in.
Experts use safe tools, like low-pressure steam machines, to melt the ice without damaging your roof. They can also check for hidden leaks and fix any winter damage you might not see.
If you notice water stains, ceiling drips, or sagging gutters, it’s best to call in help right away. Endurance Roofing is always ready to respond!
Need Help Removing Ice Dams? Call Endurance Roofing Today!
Ice dams can get worse fast, especially with Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles. If you’re seeing ice buildup, leaks, or water spots inside your home, Endurance Roofing is here to help. We offer safe, fast, and professional ice dam removal for Colorado and nearby areas. Reach out today for a free inspection and reliable ice dam removal service!
Key Takeaways:
- Ice dams happen when melted snow refreezes at your roof’s edge.
- There are steps you can follow on how to remove ice dams on your roof.
- Use a roof rake, warm water channels, and calcium chloride to manage ice dams safely.
- Never chip ice by hand—it can damage your roof and cause injuries.
- Better attic insulation and ventilation help prevent ice dams long-term.
- Professional ice dam removal contractors, like Endurance Roofing, offer the safest and most effective solution.
