When it comes to commercial winter roofing problems in Vermont and New Hampshire, most building owners focus on what they can see—snow accumulation, ice dams, and membrane wear. But one of the most effective—and often overlooked—solutions lies beneath the surface: proper ventilation and insulation.

At Rodd Roofing, we know roofing is more than just membranes and fasteners. A truly winter-ready roof functions as a system, with airflow and thermal protection working together to stop damage before it starts.

Here’s why ventilation and insulation are your roof’s best defense against harsh winters.

How Ice Dams Form—and Why They’re So Dangerous

Ice dams form when warm air from inside the building escapes upward, heating the underside of the roof. This melts snow unevenly—usually at the center—while cold roof edges remain frozen. As the melted water flows down and refreezes at the eaves, it creates a ridge of ice that blocks proper drainage.

The result?

• Water backup under roofing membranes
• Interior ceiling leaks
• Wet, sagging insulation
• Mold and mildew
• Costly emergency repairs.

The Role of Attic and Roof Insulation

Insulation helps regulate building temperature by reducing heat loss from below. Without it, warm air rises through the roof deck, contributing directly to uneven melting and ice dam formation.

Rodd Roofing’s Insulation Tips:

• Ensure insulation meets the recommended R-value for Vermont/NH climates
• Replace or repair any wet, compressed, or deteriorated insulation
• Seal air leaks around vents, chimneys, lights, and ceiling penetrations to stop heat loss

Why Roof Ventilation Matters

Ventilation allows cooler outside air to circulate beneath the roof deck or attic. This keeps the roof temperature uniform and cold, discouraging freeze-thaw cycles and preventing ice dams from forming.

Ventilation Best Practices:

• Use a balanced system of intake (soffit) and exhaust (ridge or roof) vents
• Ensure vents are unblocked, clean, and correctly sized for your building
• Make sure insulation doesn’t block airflow paths

Bonus Benefit: Improved Energy Efficiency

Insulation and ventilation don’t just protect against ice dams—they also:

• Lower heating costs
• Improve indoor temperature consistency
• Reduce strain on HVAC systems
• Extend the lifespan of your roof by preventing thermal shock and stress

Why System-Level Roofing Care Matters

Most ice dam solutions are reactive—shoveling snow, using heat cables, or calling for emergency service after a leak. At Rodd Roofing, we take a proactive, system-wide approach.

We assess every layer of your roof—from surface membranes to air movement and insulation performance—to ensure lasting protection and efficiency.

Our Winter-Readiness Services Include:

• Full inspection of the roof deck, attic space, and insulation layers
• Identification of ventilation blockages and heat loss points
• Recommendations for insulation upgrades or airflow retrofits
• Expert installation of balanced ventilation systems

Work With Rodd Roofing for Whole-Roof Health

Don’t wait for ice dams to damage your property this winter. With the right balance of insulation and ventilation, your roof can remain leak-free, energy-efficient, and winter-tough.

Contact Rodd Roofing today to schedule your winter-readiness assessment.