When winter hits Missouri and Illinois, building owners tend to focus on snow loads and frozen drains—but one of the most damaging and overlooked threats is the ice dam.
Ice dams form quietly, and the damage they cause often goes unseen until spring. From trapped moisture to structural strain, these winter formations can shorten your roof’s lifespan, weaken insulation, and lead to costly interior repairs.
At Jewett Roofing, we’ve helped countless property managers and facility owners diagnose and prevent ice dams before they become emergencies. Here’s what you should know—and what you can do to stop them before they start.
What Exactly Is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam happens when heat escapes from a building and melts snow on the roof. As that water runs toward colder roof edges, gutters, or overhangs, it refreezes—forming a thick ridge of ice.
This ridge traps water behind it, forcing it to pool and eventually find its way under seams, flashing, or membrane layers. On flat and low-slope roofs, this process is even more dangerous because the water has nowhere to drain.
Over time, that trapped moisture can lead to:
Leaks and interior water damage to ceilings and walls
Saturated insulation, reducing energy efficiency
Membrane deterioration as water seeps into seams
Structural strain on the roof deck or fasteners
Why Ice Dams Are So Costly
The visible ice is only part of the problem. The hidden cost comes from what’s happening underneath—when moisture infiltrates insulation or decking layers.
In commercial buildings, even a small leak can interrupt business operations, damage electrical systems, or lead to mold and interior deterioration. And when freeze–thaw cycles repeat daily, those small leaks expand quickly.
What starts as a minor maintenance issue can become a major repair—especially if your drainage systems are already burdened with snow or debris.
Prevention Starts Before the Snow Falls
The best way to handle ice dams is to prevent them altogether. That means addressing the root causes: heat loss, poor drainage, and neglected maintenance.
Here are steps building owners can take:
Insulate and Ventilate Properly
Ensure your attic or roof deck isn’t leaking heat upward. Inconsistent insulation creates “hot spots” that melt snow unevenly.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Have a qualified roofer check seams, flashing, and drains before the first freeze. Early detection of gaps or ponding areas can prevent costly damage later.
Keep Drains and Gutters Clear
Leaves, twigs, and debris can block water flow and accelerate freezing. Regular clean-outs, especially in late fall, are critical.
Monitor Roof Snow Loads
Heavy accumulation increases both weight and the likelihood of meltwater forming ice dams. When removal is necessary, always use safe, professional methods to avoid damaging the membrane.
Consider Preventive Add-Ons
Heat cables, snow guards, or reflective roof membranes can reduce ice formation and maintain better drainage pathways.
Duro-Last and Other Cold-Weather Roofing Systems
Roofing materials also play a big role in how your building handles ice. Systems like Duro-Last are designed to maintain flexibility in extreme cold and feature heat-welded seams that resist moisture intrusion—even when water pools or freezes along roof edges.
A durable membrane won’t stop an ice dam from forming, but it can make the difference between a quick melt and a long-term leak. That’s why Jewett Roofing recommends combining a strong system like Duro-Last with proactive winter maintenance for maximum protection.
Partner with a Roofing Team That Understands Winter
Preventing ice dams isn’t just about the right products—it’s about the right plan.
At Jewett Roofing, our winter maintenance and inspection services are built around helping commercial property owners stay ahead of cold-weather damage. We inspect roof systems, identify heat-loss points, and help manage snow and ice before it leads to expensive repairs.
Ice dams may look like a simple winter nuisance, but the hidden cost can add up fast. Protecting your roof starts long before the first snowflake falls—with insulation, inspection, and preventive maintenance.
If you want to make sure your building is ready for the freeze–thaw season, contact Jewett Roofing today. Our team can help you assess your roof system, prevent ice buildup, and stay one step ahead of winter’s worst damage.
