After the recent blizzard, many homeowners are noticing ice buildup and large icicles along the edges of their roofs. This is called ice damming, and it can happen on any home, including homes with solar panels. At Infinity Energy, we want to help homeowners understand why this happens, what it means for your home, and how warranties apply.
What Is Ice Damming?
Ice damming happens when snow on your roof melts and then refreezes near the edge of the roof. This creates a thick layer of ice that blocks water from draining properly. When water gets trapped behind the ice, it can leak under roofing materials and into the home.
Ice dams can cause:
- Water leaks inside the home
- Ceiling or wall stains
- Mold growth
- Damaged insulation
- Peeling paint
Why Ice Dams Form After Major Snowstorms
The recent blizzard created the perfect conditions for ice damming:
Heavy Snow Accumulation
Large amounts of snow sitting on the roof increase the chance of melting and refreezing.
Heat From Inside the Home
Warm air naturally rises and can warm parts of the roof. This causes snow to melt, even when outdoor temperatures are freezing.
Cold Roof Edges
As melted snow moves toward the edge of the roof, it reaches colder areas and refreezes, forming ice dams.
These conditions are weather-related and can affect homes across the area during extreme winter storms.
Homes With Solar Panels
Solar panels are built to handle winter conditions and do not cause ice dams. Ice damming is driven by snow, temperature changes, and heat movement inside the home — not by solar equipment.
Homes with solar panels experience ice damming for the same reasons as homes without them. The presence of solar panels does not mean there is an issue with your roof or your Infinity Energy solar installation.
Inspections and Warranty Coverage
Infinity Energy is happy to come out and inspect your system or roof if you are concerned about ice buildup or possible damage.
However, it’s important to understand that ice damage is not covered under roofing or solar warranties. Warranties are designed to cover defects in materials or workmanship, not damage caused by extreme weather events like blizzards.
Ice damming is considered the result of:
- Severe winter weather
- Heavy snow buildup
- Heat loss from the home
- Insulation and ventilation conditions
Because of this, repairs related to ice dam damage are typically not covered under warranty.
Homeowners Insurance May Help
The good news is that many homeowners insurance policies do cover damage caused by ice dams, including interior water damage. Coverage can vary by policy, so we strongly recommend contacting your homeowners insurance provider as soon as possible if you notice leaks or damage.
How Homeowners Can Help Reduce the Risk
While no home can fully prevent ice dams during major storms, homeowners can help reduce risk by:
- Safely removing excess snow when possible
- Making sure attic insulation is properly installed
- Improving attic ventilation
- Sealing areas where warm air may escape
When to Reach Out
If you notice heavy ice buildup, water stains, or active leaks, it’s important to act quickly. Ice dam damage can get worse if left untreated.
The recent blizzard created extreme conditions that led to widespread ice damming throughout the area. If you have questions about your solar system or concerns about your roof, the Infinity Energy team is here to help guide you in the right direction.
