What could potentially cause ice damming at the eaves?

Inadequate attic insulation is a significant factor that can lead to ice damming at the eaves. When insulation is insufficient, heat from the home can escape into the attic, warming the roof surface. This heat can cause snow on the roof to melt. As the melted water flows down the roof and reaches the colder eaves, it can refreeze, forming ice dams. These ice dams prevent further drainage and can lead to water pooling on the roof, which may eventually seep into the home, causing damage.

In contrast, excessive attic ventilation would help remove warm air from the attic space, reducing the likelihood of heat loss and thus minimizing the risk of ice damming. Properly functioning roof drainage would also aid in preventing ice damming as it would ensure that water can flow off the roof without pooling. High thermal mass roofing materials typically absorb and retain heat, which might mitigate extreme temperature fluctuations on the roof, helping to prevent scenarios conducive to ice damming.