How to Remove Ice Dams in Gutters
Ice dams often form in your gutters during the winter months due to water that is allowed to build up and freeze in your gutters. The best thing to do is to remove them early when you notice that they are forming. The larger that they are able to get, the harder they will be to remove.
- Place a ladder securely against the side of your house. Make sure that the ladder is tall enough for you to easily reach the ice dams that you need to remove. Do not attempt to walk on your roof while it is covered with ice and snow, their surface will be slippery and you may fall and hurt yourself.
- Remove the excess snow that is covering the ice dams so that you can easily see the ice dams that need to be removed. It is best to use a rake or broom to remove this excess snow. Be careful not to reach too far on the ladder for your safety.
- Use a chisel and a hammer to break off large chunks of ice that are hanging over the edge of your gutters. Be careful not to damage your gutters during this process. Avoid using these tools near the surface of the gutter, instead concentrate on any areas of ice that are hanging.
- Pour a large bucket of hot water onto a small section of your gutters, and then repeat the chiseling process carefully and in small sections. The hot water should help to loosen up the ice and allow you to remove it.
- Continue this process around the perimeter of your hose where your gutters are located.
- Remove any loose debris that is in your gutters once the ice has been removed to help prevent ice dams from forming again.