November 9, 2026 · Pocatello Insulation

Why Pocatello Homes Get Ice Dams (and How to Stop Them)

Big icicles along the eaves look nice, but they're usually a sign that heat is escaping into your roof.

What causes an ice dam

Warm air leaks from the house into the attic and heats the roof deck. Snow on the upper roof melts, runs down to the cold eaves, and refreezes into a ridge of ice. More melt water backs up behind it and can work under the shingles.

Signs you have a problem

Heavy icicles, ice along the gutters, water stains on ceilings near outside walls, and frost on the underside of the roof deck in the attic are all common signs.

The long-term fix

Raking snow and heat cables treat the symptom. The fix is keeping heat out of the attic: seal the air leaks into the attic, bring insulation up to R-49 or more, and make sure the attic is properly vented. For cathedral ceilings, spray foam on the roof deck is often the best option.