This winter has brought unusual cold snaps and heavy ice accumulation to Middle Tennessee, including Clarksville, Tennessee. Recent storms in late January 2026 dumped snow, sleet, and up to and ich and a half of ice across the region, leading to widespread reports of ice dams forming on homes. As temperatures fluctuate, melting snow refreezes at roof edges, creating these frozen barriers that can cause serious water damage inside your home.
At Thomas Restoration, we’ve seen an uptick in calls from Clarksville residents dealing with leaks, stained ceilings, and interior water intrusion caused by ice dams. This blog explains what ice dams are, why they’re happening now in our area, the risks they pose, and—most importantly—how to prevent and address them.
What Are Ice Dams?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of your roof, typically at the eaves and gutters. It blocks melting snow and water from draining off properly. Water backs up under shingles, seeps into your roof decking, and eventually leaks into your home—often appearing as drips from ceilings, walls, or light fixtures far from the exterior walls.
owenscorning.com
Ice and Water vs. Your Roof: What You Can Do to Help
This diagram illustrates the difference: A well-insulated and ventilated roof stays cool and even, preventing dams (low-risk, left). Poor insulation allows heat to escape, melting snow unevenly and forming dams at colder edges (high-risk, right).
Why Are Ice Dams Affecting Clarksville, TN Right Now?
Clarksville and Middle Tennessee aren’t strangers to winter weather, but the January 2026 storm was exceptional—layered snow and ice followed by extreme cold (down to single digits at night) and partial thawing. As reported locally, ice dams are forming across the region as meltwater refreezes at roof edges.
This creates a “slow-motion flood” effect: Water pools behind the dam during warmer spells and infiltrates your home. Even homes without prior issues can be vulnerable if attics aren’t properly insulated or ventilated.
Signs of Ice Dams on Your Roof
Watch for these common indicators:
- Long, heavy icicles hanging from gutters and eaves (beyond normal buildup).
- Ice ridges or dams visible along roof edges.
- Water stains on ceilings or walls, especially after temperature swings.
- Interior dripping or leaks during thaws.
- Buckled or damaged gutters from ice weight.
If you spot these, act quickly—ice dams can lead to rot, mold, and structural issues if water penetrates.
Heavy icicles and ice buildup like this signal a potential ice dam forming underneath the snow.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Prevention focuses on keeping your roof cold and uniform so snow doesn’t melt unevenly.
- Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation — Add insulation (aim for R-49+ in Tennessee) and ensure proper airflow with soffit vents, ridge vents, and baffles. This stops heat from escaping and warming the roof.
- Seal Air Leaks — Caulk gaps around pipes, wires, and recessed lights in the attic to prevent warm air escape.
- Clear Snow from Roof Edges — Use a roof rake to remove snow within 3-4 feet of the eaves after storms (safely from the ground).
- Install Heat Cables — As a last resort for problem roofs, heated cables in gutters and along edges can melt channels for drainage.
- Maintain Gutters — Keep them clear of debris year-round for better flow.
A roof rake is one of the safest, most effective tools for removing snow and preventing ice dams—reach from the ground to avoid climbing ladders in icy conditions.
Safe Ways to Remove Existing Ice Dams
Never use a hammer, axe, or open flame—these can damage shingles or start fires.
- Roof Rake for Snow — Remove overlying snow first.
- Calcium Chloride Melt — Place in pantyhose or socks and lay across the dam to create drainage channels (avoid rock salt, which can harm plants and gutters).
- Professional Help — For severe cases, call experts like Thomas Restoration for safe steam removal or damage assessment.
Avoid standing under icicles or on icy roofs—safety first.
Why Call Thomas Restoration in Clarksville?
If ice dams have already caused leaks or damage, don’t wait—water intrusion can lead to mold and costly repairs. Our team specializes in water damage restoration, roof inspections, and ice dam-related fixes for Clarksville and surrounding areas.
Contact us today for a free inspection if you’re seeing signs of damage. We’re here to help protect your home during this unpredictable Tennessee winter.
Stay warm and dry—reach out if you need assistance!
Thomas’ Cleaning and Restoration Team
