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Thaw could bring icy mess

Warmer temperatures may bring a respite from winter for many, but they could also bring a headache to homeowners in the form of ice dams.

Through early next week, high temperatures are expected to reach up to 40 degrees with most days being partly sunny.

Higher temperatures and more sunlight will melt snow and could result in water seeping into the home if the roof cannot drain normally due to ice buildup.

According to a report on the National Ag Safety Database at nasdonline.org, these ice dams form when a snow-covered roof above the attic is warmer than the area that overhangs the home - the eaves. Melting snow from the warmer part of the roof runs down and freezes at the edge of the roof, forming a barrier that prevents further melt from draining properly.

The best way to prevent ice dams, the report notes, is to make sure attics are sufficiently insulated and properly ventilated.

Icicles connect from a main roof to a porch roof on an Arlington Heights home. Bill Zars | Staff Photographer