Ice Dam Prevention This Winter

If this winter feels unpredictable, you’re not wrong. We’ve been experiencing a familiar but frustrating pattern: cold temperatures and snow followed by milder daytime weather, then freezing again overnight. That constant freeze-thaw cycle is the perfect recipe for ice dams, even in years when snowfall totals are relatively modest.

Ice dams form when snow accumulates on a roof and begins to melt during warmer daytime temperatures. Heat escaping from the home, often through an under-insulated attic, warms sections of the roof just enough to melt the snow. The water then runs down toward the eaves and gutters, where roof temperatures are colder. As nighttime temperatures drop, that water refreezes. When this melting and refreezing happens repeatedly, a thick ridge of ice builds up along the roof edge, creating an ice dam.

These icy barriers don’t just sit harmlessly at the edge of your roof. They block proper drainage, forcing melting snow to back up under shingles. That water can seep into the attic, soak insulation, stain ceilings, damage walls, and create conditions that encourage mold growth. The weight of the ice itself can also pull gutters away from the house or loosen shingles, opening the door to even more water damage.

Homeowners should watch for early warning signs. Large icicles hanging from gutters, uneven snow melt across the roof, or water stains appearing on interior walls during winter are all indicators that heat is escaping and ice dams may be forming.

When ice dams appear, many homeowners are tempted to take matters into their own hands, but this is where things often go wrong. One of the most common mistakes is hacking away at ice with a shovel, axe, or ice chopper. While it may feel productive in the moment, this can easily damage shingles, puncture the roof, or dent gutters, leading to repairs that cost far more than the ice dam ever would have. Another risky approach is climbing onto an icy roof without proper safety equipment. Slips and falls are a serious hazard during winter and can result in severe injury.

Chemical deicers can also cause problems if used improperly. Products not designed specifically for roofs may damage shingles, kill nearby landscaping, or corrode metal gutters. Even roof-safe deicing products should be used cautiously and viewed as a temporary measure, not a long-term solution.

The real fix for ice dams isn’t on the roof at all. It starts in the attic. Proper insulation and ventilation help keep roof temperatures consistent, preventing snow from melting unevenly in the first place. Unfortunately, more than 75% of New England homes are under-insulated, often because they were built before modern energy standards were in place. As a result, heat escapes easily, setting the stage for ice dam formation.

Improving insulation helps keep warm air inside the living space where it belongs, while proper ventilation allows cold air to circulate in the attic and keeps the roof surface cold. Together, these upgrades not only reduce the risk of ice dams but also improve comfort year-round and lower energy bills. They can also help reduce moisture buildup in the attic, decreasing the likelihood of mold and mildew.

With today’s increasingly unpredictable winter weather, ice dams are no longer just a problem after major snowstorms. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles mean they can form quickly and unexpectedly. Addressing insulation and ventilation now, before damage occurs, is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Stop Letting Your Attic Hatchway Leak Heat

Stop Letting Your Attic Hatchway Leak Heat

If you’re like most homeowners, the attic isn’t exactly a hot hangout spot. It’s storage territory for holiday decorations, travel luggage, and memory-adorned momentos that you can’t bring yourself to part with. Because we don’t venture up there much, we tend to forget the attic is one of the most extreme environments in the home. It bakes in the summer, freezes in the winter, and if the attic hatchway isn’t properly sealed, it can leak energy and money every single day of the year.

Here’s a scene I’ve encountered more times than I can count: I climb into an attic in the middle of winter and notice tiny icicles forming on the ends of roofing nails. Those nails extend through the roof deck, and when warm indoor air rises into a cold attic, the moisture in that air condenses and freezes on the coldest surfaces. It may look like a winter wonderland up there, but trust me, it’s not festive. That condensation can melt and refreeze, and over time it leads to mold, wood rot, and structural problems that are much more expensive than a simple insulation fix.

So why is your attic turning into a climate disaster zone? Many homes in Connecticut, especially older ones, lack proper insulation and ventilation. Decades ago, builders didn’t give much thought to energy efficiency. They assumed heat was cheap and drafty houses were just the way things were. Today, we know better. Adequate insulation keeps conditioned air inside your living spaces where it belongs, while ventilation helps regulate the attic temperature and remove moisture. When those two systems are lacking, your attic becomes the gateway for your heating and cooling to escape straight outside.

And the biggest culprit? The attic entryway.

Homeowners are great at sealing windows, adding storm doors, and plugging up drafty gaps around the house. But the attic hatch? That one gets ignored despite being one of the thinnest and least insulated surfaces in the entire house. A piece of plywood sitting on top of drywall can’t compete with a properly insulated ceiling. Even with weatherstripping around the edges, heat will pass right through it like a kid through a cookie jar.

Whole-house fans share the same issue. They’re terrific for ventilation in the warmer months, but when winter rolls around, that giant fan opening is basically a hole in your ceiling unless it’s insulated properly.

This is why we so often recommend adding an insulated attic cover or box. Think of it like a puffy winter jacket for that vulnerable hatchway. The covers we install are made from thick, durable insulation that’s designed specifically to withstand those attic temperatures. Once in place, the cover creates a sealed barrier that stops heat from sneaking past the stair frame. When you pull the stairs down, you simply lift the cover out of the way. No wrestling, no complications, and no impact on attic access.

Beyond comfort, let’s talk numbers. Heating and cooling account for the majority of a home’s energy bill. If warm air is drifting away through the attic hatch, your system has to work harder and run longer to keep the house comfortable. Adding an insulated cover is a small, affordable improvement that pays for itself in energy savings and protects your home from expensive moisture damage.

It also makes a difference you can feel. Homeowners often tell us rooms near the attic, especially upstairs bedrooms, stay more comfortable and consistent in temperature after the upgrade. No more drafty hallways. No more cold spots near the attic stairs. Just a home that performs the way it should.

If you’re planning improvements this season or simply want to make your home more energy-smart, have a professional check your insulation and ventilation. Boosting insulation levels and sealing the attic access is a one-two punch that delivers major results. Your HVAC system will thank you, and so will your wallet.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Is Fall Mold Creeping Onto Your Roof

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves start to fall, most homeowners are focused on pumpkin decor and raking their yards. But there’s something sneaky that may be settling in overhead: roof mold. Yes, fall is prime time for mold to make itself at home on your shingles, and ignoring it could lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.

Let’s break down what roof mold is, why it thrives in the fall, and what you can do to kick it to the curb before it spreads.

Why Fall Is Mold’s Favorite Season

Mold is a fungus that loves moisture, shade, and organic debris - all of which come together perfectly during autumn in New England. Here’s why:

• Falling Leaves: Leaves that land on your roof can trap moisture and block sunlight, creating damp, shaded pockets where mold thrives.

• Cooler Temperatures: As temperatures drop, homeowners may not notice excess moisture buildup because it’s not evaporating as quickly.

• Shorter Days: Less sunlight means less natural drying power for your roof.

• Clogged Gutters: Leaf-filled gutters lead to poor drainage and water pooling on the roof. Mold eats this up, literally.

What Mold Does to Your Roof (It’s Not Just Ugly)

Roof mold might seem like just a cosmetic issue, until it isn’t. Here’s what can happen if mold takes hold:

• Shingle Damage: Mold can deteriorate asphalt shingles and shorten your roof’s lifespan. It eats away at the granules that protect your roof from UV rays and weather damage.

• Wood Rot: If moisture seeps beneath the shingles, it can lead to rotting of the underlying wood structures, threatening your roof’s structural integrity.

• Insulation Issues: Mold creeping into your attic or insulation can ruin energy efficiency, sending your heating bills through the roof - pun intended.

• Health Concerns: Mold spores can make their way into your home’s air, potentially triggering allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues for your family.

How to Stop Fall Mold Before It Starts

The good news? Roof mold isn’t inevitable. With a little proactive maintenance, you can keep your roof mold-free all season long. Here’s how:

1. Clean Your Roof (and Gutters)
   Leaves, twigs, and debris are mold’s favorite housewarming gifts. Clear your roof and gutters regularly, especially after a big wind or rainstorm.

2. Check Your Attic Ventilation
   Poor airflow in the attic can trap moisture and encourage mold growth from the inside out. Make sure vents are clear and consider installing an attic fan if airflow is limited.

3. Trim Back Overhanging Branches
   Shade is great for picnics, not for roofs. Cutting back branches allows more sunlight to hit your roof and dry up any lingering moisture.

4. Inspect for Leaks and Damaged Shingles

   Take a walk around your home and look for signs of water damage, cracked shingles, or dark streaks. If you spot anything suspicious, call in a pro.

5. Consider Copper or Zinc Strips
   These metal strips, installed near the peak of your roof, naturally kill mold and algae as rainwater washes down over them. It’s a smart investment for long-term mold prevention.

6. Book a Professional Roof Inspection
   Fall is an ideal time to have a professional take a look. They can spot early signs of mold or damage you might miss from the ground.

When in Doubt, Call It Out

If you already see mold growing on your roof, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. DIY solutions may help with small patches, but for widespread or stubborn growth, it’s best to bring in the experts. Professional mold removal will ensure it’s safely and thoroughly taken care of, without damaging your roof in the process.

A clean, mold-free roof isn’t just about curb appeal. It’s about protecting your investment, your home’s structural integrity, and your family’s health. So this fall, while you’re sipping cider and enjoying the foliage, take a few minutes to look up. Your roof might be trying to tell you something.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.