The key to minimizing ice dams is to keep the roof surface from getting too warm with proper attic insulation and ventilation. The other solutions are installing Gutter Helmet and Helmet Heat. Gutter Helmet will keep your gutters clear of obstructions so snow melts and flows away from the roof and home rather than allowing it to back up and freeze. Helmet Heat cable can be installed under Gutter Helmet gutter covers and helps to melt the snow and ice before there is any build up.