Ice Dam Removal & Prevention in Minneapolis, MN
Ice dams are the signature Minneapolis roof problem. Heat escaping into the attic melts rooftop snow, the meltwater runs to the cold eaves, refreezes, and builds a dam that forces water up under your shingles and into your walls. We remove dams safely with steam — and fix the cause so they do not return.
Removal done wrong is worse than the dam itself. Chisels, axes, and pressure washers shred shingles and void warranties. We use low-pressure, high-temperature steam that cuts channels through the ice without touching the roof surface, typically $400–$800 for a standard dam depending on size and access.
Removal treats the symptom. The cure is keeping the roof deck cold: sealing attic air leaks around lights, chases, and hatches, bringing insulation to Minnesota-recommended R-49+, and balancing soffit intake with ridge exhaust. We audit all three and quote the fix — which often costs less than two winters of repeated steaming.
- Low-pressure steam removal — no chisels, no shingle damage
- Same-week emergency response during freeze-thaw events
- Attic air-leak sealing around fixtures and chases
- Insulation upgrades to MN-recommended R-49+
- Balanced soffit-to-ridge ventilation retrofits
Ice Dam Removal & Prevention — common questions
How do I know if I have an ice dam problem?
Watch for icicles the size of your forearm, ice building behind gutters, water stains on exterior walls below the eaves, or drips appearing on warm winter days. Any of these during a Minneapolis winter means meltwater is already where it should not be.
Do roof rakes prevent ice dams?
They help by removing the fuel — snow within 3–4 feet of the eaves — but they do not fix the cause. If your attic leaks heat, dams will form above your rake line. Rake after heavy snow, but pair it with air sealing and insulation for a permanent solution.
Need ice dam removal & prevention in Minneapolis?
Free estimates, straight answers, and no pressure. Tell us what your roof is doing — we will tell you exactly what it needs before winter does.
+1 (218) 359-0165Calls answered 7am–8pm CT daily. Emergency tarping and ice-dam steaming available on request during winter storms.