Dec 11, 2021

Fast Facts About Ice Dams & The Stack Effect

Lindus Construction’s COO, Andy Lindus offers tips on understanding the importance of quality insulation to prevent ice dams and the stack effect.

Listen to the Entire Show Here:

Understanding the Cause of Ice Dams

Ice dams can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Many times, they are caused by poor attic air sealing. This means the warm air is escaping from your home’s lower levels and is coming in contact with the roof deck. This raises the roof’s temperature and melts the snow sitting on it. The water will work its way down the roof until there is a point where there is no more heat escape. It will then refreeze, causing an ice dam. Without a way to exit the roof, the water can seep into the attic through nail holes or weakened flashings. Water infiltration should be addressed on a home as soon as it is noticed. The longer it is left ignored, the more severe and expensive the issues become.

In the winter months, many homeowners notice drafts around their windows and doors. There are many reasons this could be happening including bad weather-stripping and the stack effect. To properly diagnose these issues, it’s wise to have a reputable contractor perform diagnostic testing. Tools often used in this process include blower doors, infrared imaging, and smoke sticks. These items allow a contractor to properly determine where a home is using and losing energy.

Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions addressed by calling or texting 651-461-9226.

Twin Cities Insulation Reviews:

"I was very happy with the free insulation estimate I received from the Lindus rep. He took the time to walk me and my father-in-law through a thermal scan of all the leaky spots in my attic - and basement, bonus! - and was honest and forthright about the work they do and the best and most economical options available to us to improve ambient temperature control in these areas."

Rima F.

Lake Elmo, MN

January 9, 2024

"I did two big projects in 2023 with Lindus. First was removing and replacing attic insulation plus creating proper ventilation. Second was replacing roof and adding LeafGuard^®. Did everything go perfectly? No but that is where a company shows its merits. All issues were resolved! I even received a check for unused supplies. I highly recommend Lindus. They are not the cheapest. You get what you pay for."

Jill D.

St. Paul, MN

December 14, 2023

"Lindus Construction did a great job of removing old insulation in our attic and then sprayed foam insulation to seal the air leaks in both our attic and basement. They then installed new insulation to meet current building codes and corrected venting issues. Randall kept me updated me updated at each step of project which I appreciated. The Lindus team was very courteous and did great job of keeping our house clean during this time."

Ken M.

Cottage Grove, MN

November 22, 2023

"I thought it went very well! No issues."

Brian B.

Ramsey, MN

August 24, 2023

"Great job! Kept us informed! Also, was very considerate. Made sure everything was cleaned up at the end of the day and took care to always wear masks around us, since my wife is immune compromised."

Dave G.

Maplewood, MN

June 26, 2023

"Everything went fine. No problems."

Chip A.

Woodbury, MN

June 20, 2023

Understanding the Cause of Ice Dams

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