Ice dams and gutters: the freeze-thaw problem nobody plans for

Warm attic, cold eaves, and meltwater that ends up inside your ceiling.

LiveShowLow · Show Low & Pinetop-Lakeside · Oct 3, 2026 · Illustration image

Ice dams start when heat escaping through the roof melts the snow on top. The meltwater runs down to the colder eaves, refreezes, and builds a ridge of ice. Water then backs up under the roofing, wetting insulation and staining ceilings. University of Minnesota Extension, ice dams

Why gutters matter

Gutters that are clogged, loose or pitched wrong hold water right where it freezes. Gutter attachments and clear drainage are on the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety's pre-winter checklist for that reason. IBHS Winter Ready Home checklist

What helps

• Clean gutters and downspouts in the fall, after the needles drop.
• Make sure downspouts carry water away from the foundation.
• Seal attic air leaks and add insulation so less heat reaches the roof.
• Rake snow off the lower edge of the roof from the ground after big storms.