As winter blankets Calgary in snow, many homeowners face a common and costly issue: ice damming. These thick ridges of ice that form along the edges of your roof can lead to roof damage, water leaks, and costly repairs. The good news? Proper attic insulation can be your first line of defense.

What Causes Ice Damming?

Ice damn due to improper attic ventilation

Ice dams form when snow on your roof melts, then refreezes at the edges. This happens due to uneven roof temperatures. Poor attic insulation or ventilation allows warm air from your home to escape, heating the roof’s surface. As the melted snow flows down and hits the colder edges, it freezes, creating a dam. Once the ice builds up, it prevents additional water from draining properly, forcing it back under your shingles and into your home. Homes in Calgary are particularly susceptible to ice damming due to the city’s fluctuating winter temperatures.

Learn more about Sorell’s attic ventilation services to prevent heat buildup and reduce ice damming risks.

Why Does Attic Insulation Matter In Calgary?

With Calgary’s fluctuating winter temperatures, maintaining a consistent roof temperature is essential to prevent ice damming. Proper attic insulation plays a critical role in:

  • Reducing Heat Loss: Insufficient insulation allows warm air to escape from your living spaces into the attic, warming the roof and melting snow.
  • Maintaining Even Roof Temperatures: Adequate insulation ensures a consistent temperature across the roof, preventing the conditions that cause melting and refreezing.
  • Improving Energy Efficiency: Besides mitigating ice dams, proper insulation lowers heating costs by keeping your home warmer.

    Explore Sorell’s attic insulation services  to keep your energy costs low and your home comfortable.

    Signs You Need Better Attic Insulation

    • Uneven patches of snow on your roof
    • Ice buildup along roof edges or gutters
    • Drafty rooms or fluctuating indoor temperatures
    • Higher-than-usual heating bills
    ice damming on roof in a home that needs attic insulation upgrade

    Consider Sorell’s insulation removal services to safely replace outdated materials with efficient solutions.

    Why Blown Fiberglass Insulation Is Ideal for Calgary Homes

    At Sorell, we specialize in blown fiberglass insulation, a highly effective solution for Calgary’s climate. Here’s why it’s a great choice:

    • Comprehensive Coverage: Blown fiberglass fills every nook and cranny of your attic, eliminating gaps that can cause heat loss.
    • Moisture Resistance: Unlike some materials, fiberglass resists moisture, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
    • Energy Efficiency: It delivers excellent thermal performance, keeping your home comfortable even during Calgary’s harshest winters.

    Learn more about Sorell’s blown fiberglass insulation solutions here

    Tips to Prevent Ice Damming

    In addition to upgrading your attic insulation, consider these steps:

    • Ensure Proper Attic Ventilation: Keep the space cool and dry to maintain consistent roof temperatures.
    • Regularly Clear Snow from Your Roof: Use a roof rake to safely remove snow without damaging shingles.
    • Seal Air Leaks: Prevent warm air from escaping by sealing gaps around attic windows, pipes, and wiring.

     

    Protect Your Home This Winter with Sorell Insulation

    Ice damming can lead to significant damage, but it’s entirely preventable with the right insulation and ventilation strategies. At Sorell, we’re experts in providing Calgary homeowners with tailored attic insulation solutions that stop ice dams in their tracks.

    Ready to protect your home and save on energy costs? Contact us today for a free assessment. Let us help you stay warm, efficient, and ice-dam-free this winter!

    Want more tips on how to get your home winter ready? Check out our post on Top Winterizing Tips for Insulation in Calgary Homes