With winter continuing to bring warm temperatures, melting and freezing snow can cause damage on more than just roadways.

As is the case on the roads, ice build-up can cause problems on roofs as well.

Ice dams can be a common problem - a problem which occurs when ice builds up on a roof and prevents melted snow and ice from being able to drain off of the roof.

Water that is unable to drain off tends to gradually build upwards on the roof. The heat gets trapped in the attic causing the ice and snow to melt. As the ice dam repeatedly thaws out and re-freezes, the water poses the problem of working its way under shingles and into the attic.

Kelley Brinkworth, Manager of Media Relations with SGI, explains ways to prevent the potential problem.

"A thing you can do to prevent ice dams from forming is to keep your gutters and downspouts free of snow, ice build-up and icicles so there is a path available for melting snow and ice to drain.

Another tip is to ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent the heat from inside your home leaking into the attic and causing the snow on the roof to melt," she said.

Brinkworth suggests the safest method of clearing snow off of a roof would be to either use a roof rake from the ground as the roof may be a slipping hazard to stand on, or contact a professional to clear the surface.

She also explains communication with an individual's respective insurance broker is important on this particular issue.

"Coverage from ice dams is not automatically included with every single home insurance policy. It's just important to talk to your insurance broker so you know what kind of coverage you have. The coverage does have to be in place before you have any kind of damage."

The Media Relations Manager with SGI re-iterates the importance of double-checking the policy that is in place.

"It's just always a good idea to touch base with your broker to see if you're covered if something like this were to happen to you. It can cause some considerable damage to the home - ceilings, walls, insulation. Depending on how bad it is, it can damage the contents of a home as well," she said.

Those looking for more information on risk reduction tips for water damage can click here.