What did my new windows do?

[Utilitrack]

We installed new windows last summer-trying to take advantage of tax credit. We have noticed the following:
1) That the house is much warmer with the stove only running on low/medium, medium on the coldest days- obviously this is welcomed but 2) I am noticing ice dams on the back of our house- cape with full dormer, dormer is where the dams are.

I assume that this is a by-product of the house being tighter due to the windows, does this make sense or is it a coincidence?

 

[imacman]

IMO, it's a coincidence....everybody seems to be having ice dam problems this winter....me included. I spoke to Home Depot on the phone yesterday, and they said their #1 seller right now is roof rakes for the snow.

 

[mralias]

If you can find a roof rake now. Do a google search and you can find many ways to make your own rake with stuff you might already have.

 

[Doocrew]

Unless you did any work on the insulation in the attic or played with the soffits there will not be any difference. Window installation will not change the way the attic breathes. Everone is having the same problem. Just a coincidence.

 

[kofkorn]

Could just be a coincidence. This is one of the worst years for ice dams in memory. There hasn't been enough sun to melt off the snow cover before the next storm adds to it. Take care of the dams, check your venting and insulation and see what happens next year.

IMO.

 

[Don2222]

Hello

It has been a bad year for ice dams. I have more ice in the back where I do get some sun. My roof is well ventilated and the attic is well insulated so the inside of the roof is very cool.

Electric Heat Cables are still recommended for these bad weather conditions.

http://www.easyheat.com has a good kit with instructions


Brochure with Dormer diagram as shown in the pic below.
http://www.easyheat.com/Content1/PDF_Files/_files/40400_001_r5_ADKS_broch_web.pdf

 

[Utilitrack]

Thanks all for your replies.