What causes an ice dam?
Heat reaching the roof can melt snow above a colder eave, where runoff refreezes and blocks drainage. Water may then back up beneath shingles; Chicago freeze-thaw cycles can repeatedly recreate this pattern.
Ice Dam Prevention & Ventilation
StormBear helps with ice dams by checking the roof edge and attic ventilation that cause them, for homes across Chicago and the nearby suburbs. Your next step is to book a free inspection so we can see why ice is building up.
Areas We Offer This Service
Chicago
Suburbs
Signs you need this service
- Thick ice repeatedly builds along the eaves while snow remains higher on the roof.
- Water stains appear near exterior walls during a winter thaw.
- Icicles return in the same roof-edge locations after each snowfall.
- Attic insulation looks damp or compressed near the eaves.
- Soffit vents appear blocked by insulation or painted-over openings.
- Frost collects on accessible attic surfaces during cold weather.
What the job involves, step by step
- Text us a photo of the ice at your eaves or any interior stain, or book an inspection of the roof edge and attic ventilation.
- Review where ice and leaks recur, noting visible moisture, blocked airflow and possible heat-loss paths.
- Explain a plan distinguishing ventilation work, roofing protection and insulation or air-sealing concerns.
- Restore or improve the agreed intake and exhaust pathways without assuming extra exhaust alone solves the issue.
- Install ice-and-water shield where roofing is opened and the agreed scope calls for additional protection.
- Review completed ventilation details and explain seasonal observations that may indicate continuing heat or moisture problems.
- A clear gutter may improve drainage, but it does not correct heat escaping through the attic. Repeated ice at one eave can therefore require investigation above the ceiling as well as inspection of the roof edge.
Every job includes a written warranty with terms in your estimate; see our insurance claim guide for claim questions.
Typical price range
Ice-dam and ventilation work is quoted in writing after we check the eaves and attic. Ventilation access, the condition of the eaves and any roofing that must be opened affect the scope.
See all roofing pricesHow long it usually takes
Ventilation adjustments usually take less time than work that also requires opening and restoring roof edges. Snow, ice, access and weather can delay safe roofing work, so the schedule depends on conditions found during inspection.
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Frequently asked questions
Will more vents prevent every ice dam?
No single ventilation change guarantees prevention. Intake and exhaust need a workable balance, and indoor air leakage, insulation gaps, roof geometry and snow conditions can also contribute. These factors should be considered together. Mention recent insulation changes, bathroom exhaust concerns or rooms that feel unusually warm upstairs; These observations help frame the inspection, though none alone proves the cause of an ice dam.
Can ice-and-water shield replace attic improvements?
The shield provides backup protection beneath the roofing where installed, but it does not stop heat from escaping into the attic. Ventilation, air sealing and insulation address different parts of the problem rather than substituting for one another.
Should I chip ice off the roof myself?
Avoid climbing onto an icy roof or striking shingles with tools, which can cause injury and damage. Safe next steps depend on the conditions.