How to Prevent Ice Dams and Roof Leaks This Winter
Certified Disaster Services helps you protect your home before that happens and step in quickly if water has already found a way inside. Our team understands Utah’s winter weather, offers 24/7 emergency response, and provides complete water damage restoration from start to finish.
Contact us today to schedule a winter roof and attic inspection before the next storm rolls in.

Why Ice Dams Are Dangerous For Your Home
Common causes of ice dams
- Poor attic insulation or gaps that let warm air escape
- Inadequate attic ventilation that traps heat under the roof deck
- Heavy snow accumulation followed by sunny days and freezing nights
- Clogged or sagging gutters that hold water against the roofline
- Long, heavy icicles hanging from your gutters or eaves
- Water stains on ceilings or along the top of your walls
- Peeling paint, bubbling drywall, or damp insulation in the attic
- Sagging gutters or visible ice buildup along the roof edge
We Work With Your Insurance If Ice Dams Cause Damage
- Document the source and extent of the damage
- Provide detailed estimates and photographs
- Communicate the scope of mitigation and repairs
- Help keep your claim moving forward as smoothly as possible
Our Approach To Ice Dam And Roof Leak Protection
- Roof And Attic InspectionWe start by inspecting your roof, gutters, and attic for existing ice dams, weak spots, and signs of moisture. We identify insulation and ventilation issues that may be causing the problem.2. Safe Snow And Ice RemovalWhen needed, our team carefully removes excess snow and ice from the roofline to relieve pressure and reduce the risk of leaks and gutter damage.3. Leak Detection And Moisture CheckWe look for active roof leaks, damp insulation, and wet building materials. If water has already entered the home, we trace its path so we can address every affected area.4. Temporary Leak ControlIf your roof is leaking, we put short-term solutions in place, such as roof tarps or targeted sealing, to limit additional water intrusion until permanent repairs are completed.5. Drying, Dehumidification, And Mold PreventionOur drying equipment removes moisture from ceilings, walls, and insulation. We focus on preventing mold growth and protecting your home’s structure.6. Repair And RestoreFrom damaged drywall and insulation to flooring and finishes, we repair winter water damage and restore your home so it looks and feels like it did before the storm.
Some of these steps are:
Watch your water bill for unexpected high usage.
Don’t use any water in your house for a couple of hours and see if the meter changes.
Put food coloring in your toilet tank and check to see if it gets into the toilet bowl without it having been flushed.
Check for leaks under sinks and toilets.
Watch for yellowing or bulging of sheetrock or plaster.
Check Out Our Other Water Damage Services!
Flooded Basement Restoration
Water Mitigation
Drywall Repair
Schedule Water Damage Restoration
Certified Disaster Services in Salt Lake City, is dedicated to restoring homes who have experienced water damaged. It’s the most common service we provide, as it is commonly associated with fire damage restoration.
We understand that waiting to restore your home can cause more damage. We respond at any hour, day or night, in the Salt Lake City, Utah area to quickly and efficiently remove the water and begin the restoration process.
Don’t wait to to begin your home restoration after water damage,
call us at 801-396-9805.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover damage from ice dams?
In many cases, homeowners insurance covers interior water damage caused by ice dams, such as stained ceilings, damaged drywall, or ruined flooring. Coverage varies by policy, so it is important to review your policy details and speak with your agent. Our team can help document the damage and provide the information your insurance company needs.
What are the first steps I should take if I notice an ice dam or roof leak?
If you see water stains, dripping, or heavy icicles, try to safely remove excess snow from the ground with a roof rake, keep buckets or towels under active leaks, and avoid chipping or prying at the ice. Then call a professional. Certified Disaster Services can assess the situation, protect your home from further damage, and start the drying and repair process.
How can I reduce the risk of ice dams before winter?
Clear your gutters and downspouts, check that attic vents are not blocked, and add insulation where needed to keep warm air out of the attic. Scheduling a winter readiness inspection with a qualified restoration company helps identify issues before the first big storm.
Are icicles always a sign of an ice dam?
Not always, but large, heavy icicles paired with thick ice along the roof edge often mean an ice dam is forming. If you notice icicles together with interior water stains or damp ceilings, you should have your roof and attic inspected right away.
Can I remove an ice dam myself?
Chipping away at ice on your roof can damage shingles and gutters and may be unsafe. It is better to use safe methods like roof rakes from the ground for light snow and to call professionals for significant ice buildup or active leaks.
What happens if I ignore a small roof leak in winter?
Even a small leak can soak insulation, weaken drywall, and create the perfect environment for mold. Over time, this can lead to larger structural problems and higher repair costs. Addressing leaks early protects both your home and your health.
Call Now For Fast Ice Dam And Roof Leak Help
Don’t wait to begin your home restoration, call us!
