The recent winter storm across Northeast Louisiana, including Monroe, West Monroe, and surrounding areas, brought freezing rain that quickly turned into solid ice on roofs, gutters, and eaves. While ice buildup may look like a temporary inconvenience, it can cause serious roofing problems—especially when it leads to ice dams.
At Brown’s Roofing, we want homeowners to understand what ice dams are, why they’re dangerous, and why attempting to remove them yourself can actually make the damage worse.
How Freezing Rain Creates Ice Dams
Unlike snow, freezing rain coats the roof with a thick, solid layer of ice almost instantly. As temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and night:
- Heat escaping from the home slightly melts ice higher on the roof
- Melted water flows toward the roof edge and gutters
- Colder eaves cause the water to refreeze
- Ice continues to build, forming an ice dam
This dam blocks proper drainage and traps water on the roof, forcing it to back up underneath shingles and into areas never meant to hold moisture.
Why Ice Dams Are a Serious Problem in Monroe and West Monroe
Homes in Monroe, West Monroe, and much of Northeast Louisiana are not designed for prolonged freezing conditions. Because ice storms are rare here, roofs may be more vulnerable when they do occur.
Ice dams caused by freezing rain can lead to:
- Water seeping under shingles
- Interior leaks and ceiling stains
- Wet insulation and drywall damage
- Warped roof decking and wood rot
- Gutters pulling loose from the home
In many cases, the damage stays hidden until the ice melts and water starts appearing inside the house.
The Hidden Danger of Trying to Remove Ice Dams Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after an ice storm is trying to chip, pry, or break ice off the roof. While it may seem like the fastest solution, it’s also one of the most damaging—and dangerous—things you can do.
DIY ice removal can result in:
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Damaged flashing around vents and chimneys
- Punctures in the roof surface
- Gutters being bent or ripped off
- New leaks that didn’t exist before
There’s also a serious personal safety risk. Ice-covered roofs and ladders are extremely slippery, and falls during winter conditions can lead to severe injuries.
Many homeowners end up calling a roofer not because of the storm—but because of damage caused while trying to remove the ice themselves.
Why You Often Have to Wait Until the Ice Melts
As frustrating as it can be, most roofing repairs must wait until temperatures rise. Frozen conditions make shingles brittle, prevent sealants from adhering properly, and make inspections unreliable.
Waiting until the ice melts allows for:
- A safe and thorough roof inspection
- Accurate identification of storm-related damage
- Proper repairs that last instead of temporary fixes
In most cases, patience prevents further damage and saves money in the long run.
What Homeowners Should Do Instead
If your roof is covered in ice after a freezing rain event, homeowners in Northeast Louisiana should:
- Leave the ice alone and allow it to melt naturally
- Monitor ceilings, walls, and attic spaces for water stains or dampness
- Avoid walking on the roof or using tools to break ice
- Contact a professional roofing contractor once conditions improve
Early inspections after the thaw can catch damage before it turns into a bigger problem.
Preventing Ice Dam Issues in the Future
Once the storm has passed, prevention becomes the priority. Common solutions include:
- Sealing attic air leaks that allow heat to escape
- Improving attic insulation and ventilation
- Making sure gutters and downspouts drain properly
- Addressing weak or damaged roof areas before the next freeze
A professional inspection can identify problem areas and help protect your home before another ice event occurs.
Brown’s Roofing: Local Help After the Ice Storm
Ice storms may be uncommon in Louisiana, but when they happen, they can be tough on your roof. Brown’s Roofing proudly serves Monroe, West Monroe, and surrounding Northeast Louisiana communities, providing professional inspections, honest assessments, and dependable roof repairs once conditions are safe.
If your home was impacted by the recent freezing rain—or if you want to make sure your roof is ready before the next storm—contact Brown’s Roofing for trusted local service.
Your roof protects everything underneath it. Make sure it’s protected too.