Case Study 1: Thermal Analysis to Avoid Ice Dams on Sloped Roofs - Rainshield

Ice dams are ridges of ice and icicles caused by melt water from further up the roof re-freezing lower on the roof. The “dam" created by the ridge of ice along the eaves can trap meltwater and result in significant leakage under and through the roofing, especially shingles and metal roofing. This leakage can cause damage to the sheathing, the roof structure, or the ceiling and walls below. Large icicles along the eaves can become a danger to people below if they fall.