How can preventing icicles save me money you ask? Well, you know those picturesque scenes with icicles hanging from the roof? They may look pretty – but they can cost you hundreds of dollars if they are on YOUR HOME.
Icicles are a clear sign that you’ve got an ice dam, which is exactly what it sounds like: a buildup of ice on your gutter or roof that prevents melting snow and ice from flowing through your gutters. That’s really bad because these ice dams can lead to expensive roofing repairs.
We are far enough south that you probably would not hire the dams to be steamed off. However, leaving the ices risk long-term damage, which could ultimately cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your roof, depending on what type of shingles you have and the size of the damaged area.
How to prevent them? Insulation. Get up in your attic and see how thick your insulation is. Industry standards recommend between R-38 and R-60 which translates to a thickness of at least 14”. It depends on the type of insulation you have. Adding insulation is not hard – just messy. But not only can it prevent ice dams, but will help lower your heating and cooling costs year after year.
And if you have any other questions regarding real estate in Lee’s Summit or anywhere in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area, give me a call. 816-877-8732 or visit http://homevaluesleessummit.com I am licensed in both Missouri and Kansas.
