Ice on Gutters. Remove or let be? (roofing, foundation, heating)
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This is my first snow season while being a home owner. After hearing horror stories of people whove had heavy ice build up on their gutters, I am starting to worry.
What is the best way to remove it? Wait for warmer weather or using one of those heating devices that you can put up on the roof? I realize they are better to be used before hand, but its a little late now.
I thought of hammer and chisel but that could take for ever; id have to clear out a ton of snow that is surrounding the foundation of the house just so I can put a ladder up.
You need to get a roof rake and at least remove the snow a few feet away from the gutters after every storm. Even now that you have ice dams you should still remove the snow so it's not insulated from the snow and it'll eventually start to melt.Don't use a hammer/chisel as you'll end up doing more damage to the shingle since they're cold and very brittle.Here's a few quick things you can do that will melt the ice without damaging your roof.Good luck!
I am worrying about this as well. Thinking of getting a ladder this weekend and investigate and see best way to remove. I think I will go with what was suggested above and make sure no snow in gutters.
Gixxer has it right.. if the snow continues, and ice forms, the water WILL leak in.. damage results.. not good.
I increased my insulation in a rental home (after a brand new roof) and STILL got ice dams..
Needed to put permanent wires up to melt it.
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