Why Do I Have Icicles On My Roof?
Icicles usually form right along the bottom edge of a roof. It’s simply a result of insufficient attic insulation, or poorly installed insulation. Whether it’s icicles or “ice damming”, it could lead to water leakage in parts of the attic, and even through the ceiling and walls. In short, icicles are a symptom that requires further diagnosis and a permanent fix to avoid serious potential damage.
Icicleswill usually form when roof snow slowly melts and flows down the roof, refreezing at the edge of the roof. Clearly, this will only occur when the roof surface warms above freezing – it will be warm enough to melt snow. However, when the roof edge is below freezing, the melting snow will refreeze and create icicles. For professional contractors, it’s a sign of insulation problems.
In expansive areas like the roof and attic cavity, insulation professionals will start by making the space airtight. For the installers at Great Northern Insulation, sealing the attic is critical, even before insulation is installed. Proper sealing closes up every hole, gap, and crack throughout the attic cavity. In fact, without proper sealing, no insulation product will perform at its peak.
Airtightness in the attic will stop air leakage, control airflow and moisture, and improve energy efficiency. At GNI, installersensure that the attic is sealed, insulated, and ventilated - a “system” that works together for maximum performance. The result: improved energy consumption; more efficient HVAC operation; reduced utility bills; and enhanced seasonal indoor comfort.
As for product options when insulating the attic, GNI highly recommends spray foam (known as Spray Polyurethane Foam). For cavities like the attic and roof, the application is ideal - it blocks airflow, it stops moisture from gathering; and it provides exceptional R-Value where installed. GNI specializes in SPF, with products and installations that are fully warrantied.
