Ice damming claims increase in wake of spring melt: Saskatoon Fire and Flood

In the wake of a spring melt, ice damming on homes could cause extensive damage, according to Tiago Moreira with Saskatoon Fire and Flood.

As of Monday afternoon, Moreira said the organization had received more than a dozen calls related to the issue.

“It is a bit of a high number,” he said.

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Moreira said he expects to see more in the coming days relating to seepage as temperatures warm up and snow continues to melt.

Ice damming occurs when warm weather during the daytime quickly melts snow on rooftops, and the water freezes in the evening. The moisture could seep down into attic space.

Moreira said it’s important to check eavestroughs and downspouts to make sure they are fully extended and unclogged. He also stressed the importance of removing as much snow as possible around those areas, including window wells.

Older houses can have poor ventilation in the attic and are more susceptible to ice damage, he said. He noted the importance of making sure furnace ventilation is clear.

If homeowners start to see signs of water seeping into their homes, Moreira suggested calling his organization to assess the damage.