How an ice dam forms
Warm air leaking into the attic heats the roof deck. Snow melts on the upper roof, runs down, and refreezes at the cold eaves — building a ridge of ice that backs water up under the shingles.
Why heat cables and raking are temporary
They treat the symptom. The heat keeps coming as long as the attic floor leaks.
The fix
Air-seal the attic floor (top plates, light fixtures, chases), then add insulation to the right depth with baffles at the eaves so the roof stays cold.
We can help: Attic insulation — Blown-in cellulose or fiberglass to today’s recommended depth.