Ice damming and freeze-thaw
The single biggest threat to a Livonia roof is ice damming at the eaves. When snow melts off a warm attic, refreezes at the colder eave, and backs water up under the shingles, you get leaks in your ceiling. Two things prevent ice dams: ice and water shield extending at least 24 inches inside the heated wall line (Michigan code minimum), and properly balanced attic ventilation. Livonia’s ranch and split-level homes are especially vulnerable here. Shallow pitches hold snow longer and ice dams build faster than on steeper two-story colonials. If you’ve had ice dam leaks before, ask us to inspect both.

