Ice Dam Removal

Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at a roof's edge, building ridges of ice that trap water behind them. On flat and low-slope roofs common across Chicago, this trapped water can back up under the membrane, stress seams, and work its way into the structure below. Chicago Flat Roofing Contractors removes ice dams carefully, then checks the roof underneath for the conditions that let them form in the first place.

How Ice Dams Are Addressed

Snow & Ice Removal Equipment — purpose-built tools clear heavy snow and ice loads from the roof surface without cutting or tearing the membrane underneath.
Fall Protection Safety Harness Systems — OSHA-grade harnesses keep crew members secured while working on ice-covered or snow-loaded roof surfaces.
Infrared Roof Moisture Scanning — scanning locates moisture that has already worked its way beneath the membrane during freeze-thaw cycles.

Preventing Repeat Ice Dams

Ice & Water Shield Membrane — self-adhering membrane at roof edges and valleys gives future meltwater a sealed barrier instead of an open seam.
Flashing & Scupper Systems — properly sealed flashing and clear scuppers keep meltwater moving off the roof instead of pooling and refreezing.
Ponding Water Correction — re-sloping or tapered systems address low spots where melted ice tends to collect after a dam is cleared.

Once the ice is removed, a closer look at the roof's edges and drainage points helps prevent the same dam from forming again next winter.