Ice Dams & Water Damage: What Georgia Homeowners Need to Know

The Peach State may not experience the frequent winter snow storms that are par for the course for its northern neighbors. But when snow does fall—as it did in Metro Atlanta, where areas like Covington saw up to 3.5 inches—residents are generally less prepared and less aware of how to prevent winter weather-related property damage.

One of the most common causes of winter property damage is ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from properly draining. These icy spots develop when a roof has uneven temperatures, causing snow to melt in warmer areas and refreeze in colder ones. Sounds harmless enough, right? Wrong. Ice dams can lead to issues like water damage, structural damage, and mold growth in your home.

In places like Georgia, where snow is a rare event, properties are less likely to be protected against freeze issues like ice dams. That’s why it’s even more important for homeowners to know how to spot an ice dam, signs of ice dam-related water damage, and what next steps to take when damage does occur.

How to Spot an Ice Dam

Recognizing the signs of an ice dam can help you take action before it has the chance to cause serious damage to your home. Here’s what to look for:

• Icicles along the roof edge or gutters
• Ice buildup on gutters or roof edges
• Ice or water on exterior walls
• Gutters not draining
• Uneven snow melting on the roof
• Ice forming behind gutters or fascia
• Water or ice through soffits
• Moisture around window frames

Have you spotted any of these signs? Then, it’s time to address the issue before water damage or structural problems enter your home.

Ice Dam-Related Water Damage to Look Out For

Ice dams can cause significant water damage to your home’s interior and exterior. Even if you don’t see the telltale signs of ice damming, when temperatures dip below freezing, keep your eye out for signs of water damage from ice dams, including:

• Interior water stains or drips
• Moisture on interior surfaces
• Exterior wall leaks
• Discoloration on walls or ceilings
• Damp attic insulation
• Water damage away from plumbing fixtures
• Mold or mildew growth
• Rotting wood
• Electrical damage
• Roof water pooling

Recognizing these signs can help prevent ice dam-related water damage from becoming a more serious–i.e., costlier—issue. If you do notice any water damage in your home, call a trusted restoration company in your area that can swiftly address the issue.

Your Ice Dam Questions, Answered.

If you live in Georgia and have ice dams, you’re sure to have questions. Explore answers to some of the most common questions we receive below.

Question: Are icicles a definite sign of ice dams?

Answer: Icicles can sometimes indicate ice dams, but not always. Large, thick icicles, especially those with wide bases along roof edges or gutters, may suggest trapped water from an ice dam. Brown or yellowed icicles are another warning, indicating water has seeped under shingles.

Ice dams can exist without visible icicles, so if you suspect an issue, it’s best to assess your roof and attic to prevent potential damage.

Question: Is an ice dam a sign of a lack of insulation?

Answer: Yes, ice dams often indicate inadequate attic insulation. Heat escaping from poorly insulated areas warms the roof, causing snow to melt and refreeze at the edges. Uneven insulation can worsen the problem by creating temperature differences across the roof.

To prevent ice dams, make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. Sealing air leaks and addressing ductwork in unconditioned spaces can also help.

Question: How do you prevent ice dams?

Answer: Preventing ice dams requires a combination of maintenance and proactive measures:

• Insulate and Ventilate: Improve attic insulation and airflow to maintain a consistent roof temperature.
• Clear Snow: Carefully use a roof rake to remove snow from the roof edge after storms.
• Install De-Icing Cables: Place heated cables along roof edges and gutters to prevent ice buildup.
• Seal Air Leaks: Close gaps around vents and pipes to reduce heat escape.
• Maintain Gutters: Keep gutters and downspouts free of debris to allow proper drainage.

Question: Does homeowners insurance cover water damage from ice dams?

Answer: Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by ice dams. Coverage typically includes repairs to interior walls, ceilings, flooring, and insulation. However, there are some exclusions:

• Personal property and exterior structures (like fences) may not be covered.
• Damage caused by neglect or poor maintenance is usually excluded.
• Insurance won’t pay for ice dam removal, as it’s considered preventative maintenance.

To ensure a smooth claims process, contact PENCO Restoration as soon as you notice water damage. We will quickly mitigate the damage and provide expert assistance with the insurance claims process.

Protect Your Home From Ice Dam Damage

Ice dams may be rare in Georgia, but they can still cause major damage, from water stains and mold to structural and electrical issues. Spotting the signs early will save you from spending on more extensive repairs.

If your home has suffered water damage from ice dams, PENCO Restoration can help. Our expert team restores your home quickly and effectively to prevent further problems AND helps with the claims process. Don’t wait—contact PENCO today to schedule your assessment!

Choose PENCO for Property Restoration From Weather-Related Damage in Georgia

PENCO Restoration is Georgia’s go-to team for fast, reliable recovery from fire, water, storm, and mold damage. With extensive experience, we proudly serve homeowners across Georgia, including Atlanta, Athens, Gainesville, and Newnan. We have the expertise to restore your property to its pre-loss condition with unmatched care and quality. When winter damage occurs, trust PENCO to help. Call 770-308-8555 today to schedule your assessment!