Ice dam removal for Western New York winters

Icicles along the gutters and roof edges can be a sign that ice is building up on your roof. Ice dams can form when snow melts on a warmer section of the roof, runs toward the colder eaves and refreezes. As ice builds up, it can prevent melting snow from draining properly and allow water to work its way beneath the shingles, potentially causing leaks and interior damage.

Heavy lake-effect snow followed by changing temperatures makes ice buildup a common winter concern for homeowners throughout the Rochester area. Westside Developers provides roof snow and ice dam removal to help protect your home and reduce the risk of damage.

With decades of roofing experience, we can also look for visible conditions that may be contributing to recurring ice buildup and discuss possible next steps with you.

Ice dam and icicles along the eaves of a snow-covered roof
Roof eaves cleared of an ice dam after winter snow removal

Ice and snow services

  • Ice dam removal using methods designed to safely remove ice without damaging shingles or roofing materials
  • Roof snow removal to reduce heavy snow buildup, including low-slope roofs, porches and areas where snow tends to drift
  • Gutter and downspout clearing when ice buildup is preventing proper drainage
  • Prompt response when you're having a problem, typically within 24 hours, depending on weather conditions, demand and accessibility

If you're experiencing an active leak or significant ice buildup, let us know when you call so we can understand the situation and respond as quickly as possible.

Why you should not climb up there yourself

Walking on a snow- or ice-covered roof can be dangerous, and trying to chip or break away an ice dam can damage shingles, gutters and other roofing materials. Tools such as hammers and chisels, along with pressure washers or inappropriate ice-melting products, can cause additional damage.

A long-handled roof rake may be used from the ground to carefully remove accessible snow near the roof edge. For heavy snow, significant ice buildup or areas that can't be safely reached from the ground, it's best to call an experienced crew with the proper equipment and safety procedures.

How winter service works

  1. Call us. Let us know what you're seeing: heavy snow, ice buildup, icicles or an active leak. We'll gather the information we need and schedule a visit, typically within 24 hours depending on weather, demand and accessibility.
  2. On-site assessment. Our crew evaluates the affected areas and determines the safest way to remove the snow and ice without damaging your roofing materials.
  3. Snow and ice removal. We carefully remove the necessary snow and ice to help restore drainage and reduce the risk of additional water buildup.
  4. Cleanup. We clean up removed snow and ice from the immediate work area and let you know if we notice any visible roofing concerns that may need attention.

How is snow and ice removal priced?

Service includes a minimum charge covering the visit and first hour of work, followed by an hourly rate if additional time is needed. Many snow and ice removal jobs can be completed within the first hour, although the time required depends on the amount of buildup, roof conditions and accessibility.

Helping reduce future ice dam problems

Reducing recurring ice dams often starts with understanding why certain areas of the roof are warming and allowing snow to melt. Attic insulation, air sealing and proper roof ventilation can all play a role in keeping roof temperatures more consistent during the winter.

When replacing a roof, proper ventilation and ice and water barrier in vulnerable areas provide additional protection against winter weather and water infiltration.

If recurring ice buildup is a concern, Westside Developers can look for visible roofing and ventilation conditions that may be contributing to the problem and discuss appropriate roofing improvements with you.

Learn more in our Ice Dam Prevention Guide, or explore our roofing and seamless gutter services.

Ice dam removal across Greater Rochester, Orleans and Genesee counties

Westside Developers is based in Hilton and works throughout Monroe County, most of Orleans County, and Le Roy and Bergen in Genesee County.

Monroe County

Orleans County

Genesee County

Ready to talk about your project? Request a free estimate or call (585) 392-4365.

Ice dam and snow removal questions

What causes ice dams on roofs in Western New York?

Ice dams can form when snow melts on a warmer portion of the roof, runs toward the colder eaves and refreezes. As ice builds up, it can prevent additional melting snow from draining properly and allow water to back up beneath the shingles. Heavy lake-effect snow and changing winter temperatures make ice buildup a common concern for Western New York homeowners.

How do you remove an ice dam without damaging the roof?

Westside Developers uses safe removal methods designed to protect your shingles and roofing materials. We carefully remove the necessary snow and ice to help restore drainage without using aggressive methods that could cause unnecessary damage to the roof.

How quickly can you respond to an ice dam problem?

We typically respond within 24 hours, depending on weather conditions, demand and accessibility. If you have an active leak, let us know when you call so we can understand the situation and respond as quickly as possible.

While you're waiting, protect the inside of your home by moving valuables away from the affected area and using containers to catch dripping water when it is safe to do so. Never climb onto a snow- or ice-covered roof yourself.

How can I reduce the chance of ice dams returning?

There isn't one solution that prevents every ice dam. Attic insulation, air sealing and proper roof ventilation can all help keep roof temperatures more consistent during the winter. Keeping gutters clear and managing heavy snow buildup may also help under certain conditions.

When a roof is replaced, proper ventilation and ice and water barrier in vulnerable areas provide additional protection against winter weather and water infiltration. If you've experienced recurring ice buildup, Westside Developers can look for visible roofing or ventilation conditions that may be contributing to the problem.

Is it safe to remove roof snow myself?

Walking on a snow- or ice-covered roof can be dangerous, and trying to chip or break away ice can damage shingles, gutters and other roofing materials.

A long-handled roof rake may be used from the ground to carefully remove accessible snow near the roof edge. For heavy snow, significant ice buildup, steep roofs or areas that can't be safely reached from the ground, it's best to call an experienced crew with the proper equipment and safety procedures.