Shingles rot when the mat at the core of the shingle absorbs moisture. Ice dams occur on roofs with inefficient insulation and cold eaves. In winter, snow accumulates on roofs. As it melts down to the overhang and refreezes, an ice dam is formed. An ice dam can be detected by long icicles on overhangs.
Ice dams cause water backups, allowing water to seep through the roof and cause even more damage.
In addition to preventing ice dams, insulation can also help reduce energy bills and keep homes cooler during spring and summer. On warm summer days, heat attempts to move from the outdoors to the indoors. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, checking your home's insulating system is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to save energy and minimize energy waste. The Energy Savers campaign, developed by the DOE in partnership with Owens Corning, provides more than 100 easy and practical energy-efficiency tips and projects. Courtesy of ARA Content.