It took a while but winter finally showed up in Michigan and with it came snow and ice cold temperatures that led to school closings and slippery roadway conditions.

The Game 730 WVFN-AM logo
Get our free mobile app

Another thing that has started to happen because of the weather is giant chunks of ice forming and hanging from homes and garages across West Michigan.

These giant chunks of Ice are often called ice dams.

Ice dams on michigan homes
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM
loading...

What Is An Ice Dam

The University of Minnesota describes an Ice Dam as a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof.

via GIPHY

While an ice damn might look cool to a kid that loves Frozen, this is something you don't want to let go because it can damage your house. Water that backs up behind the ice dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.

Ice dams on michigan homes
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM
loading...

Should You Knock Down Ice Hanging From Your House

If ice is hanging from your house, it could pose a safety risk to not only you but anyone else who gets near it.

Ice dams on michigan homes
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM
loading...

Here are some suggestions on what you can do:

Safety First: Do not attempt to remove the ice if it involves standing on an unstable surface or if there's a risk of injury. Safety should be the top priority.

Ice dam michigan house
canva
loading...

Assess the Situation: Determine the size and weight of the ice accumulation. It might not be a major concern if it's a small amount.

Ice dam michigan house
canva
loading...

Heat Source: If it's safe to do so, you can use a heat source, like a hairdryer or heat gun, to melt the ice. Be cautious not to overheat any particular area, and avoid using open flames.

Hair Dryer
iStock
loading...

Preventive Measures: Consider taking preventive measures to avoid ice buildup in the future, such as improving insulation, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any roof or gutter issues.

Ice dam michigan house
canva
loading...

Professional Help: If the ice accumulation is substantial or if you're unsure about dealing with it, it's advisable to seek professional help. Contacting a roofing or ice removal service can be a safer option.

Ice dam michigan house
canva
loading...

World of Winter 2022

I had so much fun with my wife Lindsey checking out some of the amazing displays for World of Winter 2022. Here are some of my favorite pictures.

Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh

30 Famous Celebrities You Might Not Know Are From Michigan

You will definitely recognize these names and faces, but might be surprised to find out they're from Michigan.

Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh / Getty Images

25 Things Michigan Is Known And Famous For

Michigan is known as the Motor City and is home to Motown. But that just scratches the surface of what the Mitten state is known and famous for.

Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh

More From The Game 730 WVFN-AM