When temperatures bounce between freezing and melting which is basically every week in Kansas City – ice dams become a real threat.
Homes in Leawood, Prairie Village, Overland Park, and KCMO are especially prone due to mature trees, older gutter systems, and varying roof pitches.
At Gorilla Exteriors, we help homeowners stop ice dams before they cause expensive water damage.
What Exactly Is an Ice Dam?
Ice dams form when heat escapes through your attic, melts snow on the roof, and that water refreezes at the edge. Over time, this ice buildup pushes water backward under shingles right into the home.
Here’s what contributes to it:
Poor attic insulation – Warm air rises and melts snow unevenly.
Clogged gutters – Water backs up and freezes into heavy ridges of ice.
Improper ventilation – Moisture becomes trapped in the roof system.
Heavy snow loads – More melting, more refreezing, more pressure.
Common Signs You’re Dealing with an Ice Dam
Homeowners often notice symptoms before they recognize the cause:
Icicles forming along roof edges
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Drafts or cold spots in certain rooms
Gutters sagging under the weight of ice
Visible ice ridges on the roofline
If you’re in Prairie Village or Leawood, where older homes are common, these issues show up even more frequently.
How to Prevent Ice Dams Before They Start
December is the perfect time to take preventative steps:
Clear gutters and downspouts – Proper flow stops water from freezing in place.
Improve attic insulation – Keeps temperatures consistent across the roof.
Check ventilation – Balanced airflow reduces moisture and heat pockets.
Repair roof damage – Missing shingles and loose flashing allow water intrusion.
Our team specializes in identifying these problem areas early so you can avoid mid-winter emergencies.
What Gorilla Exteriors Does to Help
When we inspect a roof for ice dam risk, we check:
• Gutter stability
• Shingle condition
• Ventilation and airflow
• Insulation levels
• Attic moisture
Then we give you clear, simple recommendations – no pressure, just expertise from a KC contractor that’s been serving homeowners since 2005.
About Gorilla Exteriors Contracting…..
Service Areas We Cover
Kansas City, Leawood, Prairie Village, Overland Park, Shawnee, Lenexa, Olathe, Lee’s Summit, North KC, Bonner Springs, Raytown, and more.
Why Choose Gorilla Exteriors?
We’re locally trusted for roofing, siding, gutters, storm repair, and winter protection.
Homeowners rely on us because we offer:
• High-quality workmanship
• Honest inspections
• Fast scheduling
• A team that treats your home like their own
Worried About Ice Dams? Let’s Take a Look.
Call or text (913) 257-3888 to schedule a winter inspection and protect your home from freeze–thaw damage this season.