There is no doubt that icicles hanging from houses is the stuff of Christmas cards and arouses the festive spirit in all of us. Icicles form on the property when warm air in the attic melts the snow on the roof. As the temperature rises, the melted water runs under the snow, it will then refreeze and form an icicle as it falls off the roof and gutters of the property.

They do however, represent danger. They can block a whole gutter and then as they hang over it, their spike-like shape presents a major danger to anyone or anything immediately below them. It is not unheard of for icicles to cause huge damage to vehicles parked in the garden. This can be very costly to drivers as it means a claim on the insurance, loss of a hard earned no claims bonus and an increased premium on the next motor insurance quote. It is best to remove icicles from your gutters as soon as they appear. Doing this will prevent larger and much more dangerous build ups.

Removing them can be done very easily. First, place a ladder against the house and near the icicles. Ensure that the ladder is high enough but more importantly that it’s secure and stable. It is always best to have someone holding the ladder and never climb or stand on a roof which is covered with snow and ice. Brush away all the excess snow from the gutter and all around it too. If you have a roof rake, use it to knock as much snow off the roof as possible. Pull the snow downward, to the ground and in the direction of the slope of the roof. Pulling the snow sideways can often damage the roof and break tiles.

Next it is time to remove the dangerous icicles by breaking off small pieces with a chisel and a hammer. Breaking off large pieces may damage the gutters or roof. Work slowly and patiently, removing one icicle at a time. Remove any ice, dirt and leaves from the gutter and if possible try to keep the gutters as clean as possible during the dry winter months. When it comes to ice in gutters the most important factor is prevention. Keep your gutters clean at all times and in all seasons because ice and snow are less likely to form build-ups in perfectly clean gutters. Icicles may add a seasonal touch to the look of your house, but they can be dangerous.