Ice Dams and Winter Roof Damage in Wisconsin
Winter in Wisconsin brings heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and rapid freeze–thaw cycles that can seriously impact your roof. For homeowners in West Allis, Milwaukee, and throughout Southeastern Wisconsin, ice dams are one of the most common causes of winter roof damage. Understanding how they form — and what to do about them — can prevent costly structural repairs.
What Is an Ice Dam?
An ice dam forms when snow melts on a warmer section of your roof and refreezes along the colder eaves. This creates a ridge of ice that blocks proper drainage. As melting snow backs up behind the ice dam, water can work its way under shingles and into the roof system.
Unlike simple surface ice, ice dams trap water and create pressure beneath roofing materials.
Why Ice Dams Are Common in Wisconsin
Wisconsin homes are especially vulnerable due to:
Heavy snow accumulation
Large temperature swings
Inadequate attic insulation
Poor roof ventilation
Aging roofing systems
When heat escapes from the attic, it warms the roof surface unevenly. Snow melts higher up and refreezes near the colder edges — creating the perfect environment for ice dam formation.
Signs of Ice Dam Roof Damage
Homeowners in West Allis and Milwaukee should watch for:
Large icicles hanging from gutters
Ice buildup along roof edges
Water stains on ceilings
Peeling paint near rooflines
Damp attic insulation
Shingle lifting near eaves
Ice dam damage often becomes visible inside the home before the roof issue is obvious from the outside.
Can Ice Dams Cause Long-Term Roof Damage?
Yes.
When water backs up behind an ice dam, it can:
Penetrate under shingles
Saturate roof decking
Damage underlayment
Lead to mold growth
Weaken structural components
Over time, repeated winter exposure can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roofing system.
Does Insurance Cover Ice Dam Damage?
In many cases, homeowners insurance may cover sudden and accidental water damage caused by ice dams — especially if storm-related. However, insurance may not cover long-term neglect or pre-existing issues.
This is why proper documentation matters.
At Lion Guard Roofing, we provide detailed roof inspections to determine whether winter roof damage qualifies for insurance repair or replacement.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Prevention typically involves:
Improving attic insulation
Proper roof ventilation
Sealing air leaks
Safe snow removal when necessary
Attempting to remove ice dams improperly can damage shingles, flashing, and gutters — so professional evaluation is recommended before taking action.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
You should schedule a professional inspection if:
Your roof is 10+ years old
Your home experienced heavy snow accumulation
You notice interior water stains
Ice buildup was significant this winter
Early inspection can prevent small winter issues from becoming major spring repairs.
Serving West Allis & Southeastern Wisconsin
Lion Guard Roofing provides winter roof inspections and ice dam damage assessments throughout:
Surrounding Southeastern Wisconsin communities
Check out our new roofing cost calculator!
If your home experienced ice buildup or winter water intrusion, a professional evaluation can protect your roof before further damage occurs.
