As snow and ice begin to melt, be on the lookout for what winter weather may leave behind

What to do to minimize ice damming and roof damage

Worn out by the winter weather? We all are. But don't let your guard down just yet. Now that the snow and ice are beginning to melt, turn your attention to your roof.

Following harsh winters like the one we've experienced this season, it's not uncommon for ice dams to form on rooftops and cause damage inside and outside a home. Ice dams are lumps of ice that form on gutters, eaves and valleys, and prevent melting snow from running down. As the snow melts, the water backs up, seeps under shingles or tiles and can eventually leak into the home.

Allstate is seeing ice-damming activity in the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. "We know many residents are still feeling the effects of the winter blast," said Allstate New York Spokesperson Jaclyn Darrohn. "However, we want people who have been hammered by the bitter cold conditions to know what to look for and take precautions if it's safe to do so."

Minimize Ice Dam Formation on Your Roof

For personal safety, avoid getting on the roof or working from a ladder to remove large amounts of snow and ice. Here are other tips from Allstate to help safely minimize potential ice damming damage:

• If it's safe to do so, use a snow rake or soft broom to clear fresh snowfall from gutters.
• Avoid using any sharp tools or ice picks to remove ice as this can cause more damage.
• Consider calling a licensed expert to remove the snow and ice dams.
• Watch inside your home for unexpected water leakage on walls or ceilings.
• Identify areas of heat loss in your attic and then properly insulate those areas.
• Wrap or insulate heating ductwork in order to reduce heat loss through the attic.
• Ensure there is proper ventilation by installing soffit vents that move air upward to a ridge vent or other venting near the roof ridge.
• Seal all openings to the attic (e.g. light fixtures).
• Prior to snow falling, keep gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and natural debris.

Policyholders may want to review their policy or contact their agent if they have any questions. By protecting your home using the winter weather tips above, homeowners may avoid experiencing potential damage. Find other ways to protect your home from ice damming at Allstate's "Be Aware and Prepare" website: http://www.allstate.com/catastrophe/ice-dam.aspx.