Winter in Ohio can be beautiful… until it starts leaking into your living room. One of the most common (and most misunderstood) cold-weather issues we see around condominiums and homeowner associations is the ice dam.

If you’ve ever noticed big icicles hanging from a roofline, gutters packed with ice, or water stains appearing on an interior ceiling during a freeze-thaw cycle, an ice dam may be the reason. Here’s what every homeowner and condo owner should know.

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the lower edge of a roof—usually near the eaves or in the gutters. It acts like a “dam,” preventing melting snow from draining off the roof. When water can’t flow off the roof normally, it backs up behind the ice and can slip under shingles and into the building.

That water can lead to:

• Ceiling and wall staining
• Wet insulation
• Reduced energy efficiency
• Peeling paint, warped trim, and damaged drywall
• Deterioration around roof edges, soffits, and fascia

How do ice dams form?

Ice dams typically require two things – snow on the roof and a warm roof surface that melts the snow. Here’s the usual sequence:

• Heat escapes from inside the home (through the attic/roof area).
• The snow above the heated area melts.
• The meltwater runs down toward the roof edge (which is colder).
• At the eaves/gutters, the water refreezes and builds layers of ice.
• More meltwater arrives, but can’t drain—so it backs up under shingles.

Important: The issue isn’t “too much snow.” The real culprit is usually heat loss + uneven roof temperatures.

Common warning signs

You may have an ice dam if you notice:

• Large icicles along gutters or roof edges
• Gutters that look “frozen solid”
• A thick, raised ridge of ice at the eaves
• Water stains on ceilings or near exterior walls
• Dripping behind gutters (not just off the edge)
• Bubbling paint, damp drywall, or musty smells near upper rooms

What to do if you suspect an ice dam

1) Prioritize safety

Avoid climbing on roofs or chipping at ice with sharp tools. Falls and roof damage are common when people try to “hack away” at ice dams.

2) Limit interior damage

If you see active leaking:

• Place buckets/towels under drips
• Move valuables away from wet areas
• If a ceiling is bulging, it may be holding water – use caution and do not stand below

3) Call the right professional

Depending on the situation, that may be:

• A qualified roofing contractor
• A vendor who specializes in safe roof snow/ice removal often using roof rakes from the ground or low-pressure steam systems)

Important: If you live in a condo or patio home with exterior maintenance, follow your association’s process for reporting exterior issues to Eclipse so it can be documented and routed appropriately.

How to prevent ice dams

Prevention is all about keeping the roof temperature more consistent and reducing melting.

Best long-term fixes

• Improve attic insulation to reduce heat escaping through the roof
• Air-seal attic leaks (around light fixtures, fans, plumbing chases, attic access doors)
• Ensure proper attic ventilation (balanced intake + exhaust)
• Seal and insulate ductwork that runs through unconditioned spaces

These steps help keep the roof cold so snow doesn’t melt unevenly.

Practical seasonal steps

• Remove snow from the first few feet of roof edge after heavy snowfall
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear in fall so water has a path when things melt
• Watch trouble areas: valleys, dormers, skylights, and north-facing rooflines are frequent repeat spots

Who is responsible – owner or association?

Every community is different. In many condos and some HOAs, the association maintains roofs and common building exteriors, but owners are often responsible for interior repairs (like drywall/paint) unless governing documents say otherwise or the association’s policy covers it.

If you’re unsure:

• Report the issue promptly to Eclipse
• Document any observable signs with photos
• Eclipse will route the issue correctly and coordinate next steps consistent with the association’s responsibilities

In Conclusion

Ice dams can look like a harmless winter nuisance, but they’re often a warning sign that warm air is escaping and water has nowhere safe to go. The good news is that a few smart steps like watching for early warning signs, reporting leaks quickly, and improving insulation, air sealing, and ventilation over time can prevent costly damage and headaches. If you’re seeing heavy icicles, gutter ice buildup, or any interior staining in your Eclipse-managed community, don’t wait: submit photos and details right away so we can help route the issue appropriately and coordinate the next best step to protect your home.