Why is there ice build-up in my eavestroughs?

In the depths of winter, have you noticed the appearance of ice in your gutters, accompanied by numerous stalactites? This ice build-up can cause a variety of problems, from damage to your gutters, to disruption of rainwater drainage, to structural damage to your roof. In this article, we’ll explore the main causes of ice build-up in your gutters.

Factors causing ice build-up in gutters

Ice build-up in eavestroughs, often referred to as “hanging icicles” or “ice dams”, is usually the result of multiple factors, all directly related to the harshness of winter. Here are the main causes:

• Alternating periods of freezing and thawing

When snow melts on the roof, due to the heat emitted inside the house or under the effect of the sun, the liquid flows towards the gutters. When the ambient temperature drops, this water freezes and blocks of ice form.

• Problems associated with inefficient drainage

With an inefficient gutter system, ice can build up. If meltwater doesn’t drain properly into downspouts and out of gutters, it stagnates and eventually freezes, creating blocks of ice that impede drainage.

• Insufficient insulation

Lack of insulation in the attic of a building can accentuate the melting problem. Excess interior heat heats the roof, partially melting the snow. When this water reaches the gutters, it will freeze again, forming ice.

• Clogged gutters

Gutters clogged with leaves, debris and ice block the natural drainage of melted water. This leads to the formation of pockets of water which, as they accumulate, freeze again, aggravating the ice problem.

• Incorrect gutter inclination

For optimum drainage, eavestroughs should be installed with a slight slope. If this slope is absent or poorly adjusted, the water won’t drain off properly, which encourages the formation of ice.

Steps you can take to prevent ice from forming in your gutters

To prevent ice from forming in your eavestroughs, several strategies can be implemented, including :

• Ensure optimum insulation in the attic: This helps stabilize the temperature of the roof, limiting premature snow melt.
• Clean your gutters frequently: Regularly clearing your gutters of leaves, branches and other debris will prevent blockages that disrupt water drainage.
• Install leaf guards: These devices prevent the accumulation of debris in your gutters, facilitating the passage of water.
• Make sure gutters are installed correctly and at the right angle: this ensures efficient drainage of rainwater and meltwater.
• Clearing snow from the roof: Clear snow before it melts and spills into the gutters, reducing the risk of frost.
• Install eavestrough heaters: These devices maintain the right temperature to prevent ice from forming in your eavestroughs.

If you have significant ice build-up along your roof, call us! At Gouttières Grand-Montréal. We’re qualified to thaw your eavestroughs safely and efficiently. We offer personalized advice and a free estimate for any work required. With our wealth of experience, we are experts at installing, repairing, replacing and cleaning eavestroughs in the Greater Montreal area.