CAI-NJ Feb 2022

ICE DAMS... from page 34.

So, what do you do? A perfect but impractical solution would be to keep the inside of the attic the same temperature as the out- side, so the snow at the top does not melt. This would involve a perfectly sealed, ventilated, and insulated attic. Okay, back to reality. Your first thought may be to remove the snow from the roof or to remove the gutters so the dams cannot form. Ice dams actually do not need gutters to form — they just make it a little bit easier. Removing the gutters will damage them and they will not be able to be reused. It will also damage the part of the home where they are connected. If ice has already formed, it sticks the gutters to the shingles.

Courtesy CAI-NJ.

Pulling them apart can result in dam- aged shingles. As far as removing the snow, this is not only dangerous but also impractical. To prevent ice dams from forming, all the snow on the roof would need to be removed, not just the snow around the gutters. The reality is that preventing dam- age from ice damming requires long-

term planning rather than short-term corrective action. Keep in mind that ice damming is a naturally occurring phenomenon that is not caused by poorly constructed or designed roofs. While these conditions may exacer- bate the problem, they are not cause. In many cases, the designs of cur- rent day roofs already incorporate CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 38

Isn't it about time you took a fresh look at your community's insurance program?

Are you looking for personal, professional service and attention? Condominium Insurance

Let us work with your association to find the right coverage, at the right price. Felsen Insurance Services, Inc. 3155 Route 10

Denville, NJ 07834 Phone: 973-361-1901 Fax: 973-361-2660 info@felsen.com

36

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2