Ice Dam Melt Risk Calculator
Ice dams form when heat escaping through your attic melts snow that then refreezes at the colder roof edge. Enter your attic insulation, roof pitch, outdoor temperature, and snow depth to estimate your ice dam risk score.
About this calculator
Estimate your roof's ice dam risk based on attic insulation level, roof pitch, outdoor temperature, and snow depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the risk score mean?
Scores closer to 0 indicate low ice dam risk, while scores closer to 100 indicate conditions favorable for ice dam formation, such as poor attic insulation, low roof pitch, clogged gutters, and hovering-near-freezing temperatures.
Why does roof pitch matter?
Steeper roofs shed snow and meltwater faster, reducing the time available for water to refreeze at the eaves, while low-pitch roofs retain snow longer and are more prone to ice dams.
How can I lower my risk?
Improving attic insulation and ventilation to keep the roof surface uniformly cold, clearing gutters before winter, and removing excess snow with a roof rake are the most effective preventive steps.