Symptoms
- Thick ice filling the gutter trough
- Icicles hanging from the gutter edge
- Gutter sagging under the ice's weight
Likely causes
- CommonSnowmelt refreezing overnight in the gutterDaytime melt from sun or attic heat refreezes as temperatures drop at night.
- CommonClogged gutter trapping meltwaterDebris left in the gutter from fall holds water that then freezes solid.
- PossiblePoor attic insulation contributing to roof-edge ice damsUneven roof temperatures push meltwater to refreeze right at the gutter.
What to do
- Avoid chipping at gutter ice with tools, which can dent or crack the gutter.
- If safe from the ground, use a roof rake to remove snow load feeding the ice a few feet back from the edge.
- Wait for a thaw when possible rather than forcing removal, since gutters are more fragile when frozen.
- Once thawed, clean the gutters thoroughly so they don't hold as much water next time.
- Check gutter hangers for looseness caused by the ice's weight and re-secure as needed.
- Improve attic insulation and ventilation to reduce uneven roof melting that feeds ice buildup.
- Consider heat cables along the gutter and eave in climates with recurring ice problems.
Tools and parts
- Roof rake
- Ladder (ground-level use only)
Roof and gutter heat cableSearch: “roof gutter de-icing heat cable”
When to call a pro
Call a roofing or ice-dam removal service for heavy buildup, and an insulation contractor to address the root cause.
Safety
Use caution
Don't climb a ladder onto an icy roof or gutter, and watch for falling ice when working below.