MSI Insulation

01/04/2026

12/08/2025

a detailed cross-section diagram explaining how Ice Dams form and subsequently cause leaks in a home, leading to damage to the roof structure, walls, and interior ceiling.

🧊 HOW ICE AND SNOW CAUSE LEAKS (THE ICE DAM CYCLE)
The diagram illustrates the four main stages of ice dam formation and the resulting water infiltration:

1. HEAT LOSS AND SNOW MELT
• Cause: Heat from the living space below (due to inadequate Insulation or poor attic sealing) rises and warms the central and upper sections of the roof deck.
• Effect: This warmth melts the layer of snow directly in contact with the warm roof surface.

2. WATER FLOW AND REFREEZE
• Flow: The meltwater runs down the roof slope, beneath the remaining layer of snow.
• Refreeze: When this water reaches the eave (the overhanging part of the roof) which is unheated and exposed to the cold exterior air, the roof temperature drops below freezing. The water refreezes, typically starting near the Gutter.

3. ICE DAM FORMATION
• Build-up: As more meltwater flows down, it hits the initial patch of ice and refreezes, forming a larger, solid ridge of ice known as the ICE DAM. This ridge acts as a barrier along the eave.

4. WATER INFILTRATION (THE LEAK)
• Trapped Water: The ice dam prevents subsequent meltwater from draining off the roof. This meltwater pools behind the ice dam, becoming TRAPPED WATER.
• Wickage: This standing water forces its way back up the roof slope, beneath the SHINGLES. Shingles are designed to shed water *down*, but they are not fully waterproof against standing, "uphill" water.
• Damage: The water penetrates the roof sheathing and insulation, dripping down through the:
• DRYWALL/PLASTER (causing water stains, sagging ceilings, and potential mold).
• WALL CAVITY (causing damage to wall materials, structure, and insulation).
This cyclical process of melting and refreezing is the primary reason why ice dams are structurally damaging to homes in cold climates.

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11/22/2025

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06/10/2025

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05/30/2025

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