This winter has been a cold one. I live in RI. I have about 10 inches of snow on the roof and the gutters are solid ice. So far, I have had no leaks. What I am hearing though are a lot of creaks and booms coming from the attic. Thiese sounds occurs mainly at night.
I have lived in this house for 45 years and can’t remember hearing so many night time noises. My house is a ranch with a 4 pitch roof. I know the house will “move” during this wx but what makes these noises? I plan to inspect the attic when the wx permits.
Thanks
Replies
Nk
Creaks, not so much concern, but curiosity would get me up there. A couple coons would leave a hell of a mess come spring.
Booms, I'd be looking today. Dress warm.
How much of an eave overhang do you have? If this is a typical New England home with 4" eaves then it's fairly certain that water is leaking into your attic. If you have 2-3 foot eaves then you may be OK.
But you should get some salt-filled cloth tubes (heavy stockings are sometimes used, though there are commercially-made products) and throw them across the ice dams every 3-4 feet, to melt through a channel and let the water drain.
Ice Dams
I can't comment on the ice dams and whether they are causing leaks but cracking noises from roofs aren't uncommon in cold weather. Hopefully, this article can shed some light on the noises you're hearing:
http://carletonnow.carleton.ca/february-2005/why-does-my-house-make-loud-cracking-sounds-in-very-cold-weather/
Ice Dams
Very informative! Thank you