This cold winter has caused more than our share of damage due to ice dams through the freeze thaw cycle. With winter almost over it is time to start thinking about repairing that damage and preventing it from happening again. First the repairs; normally the leaks have caused more decorative damage than physical damage. The decorative damage is normally ceiling texture, paint peeling and the occasional separation of the trim from the wall caused by swelling from getting wet. Something to consider if you have texture on your ceilings and the damage to the texture is severe enough or the texture adhesion is poor would be to remove the texture and paint the ceiling flat. This normally requires a little compound work but in the long run if you ever have ceilings damaged by a water leak again it will be a much easier repair. If this leak has gone on for a longer period of time then have the drywall check to see if it needs replacing where the leak occurred and check for any mold. The prevention can be as simple as having an electrician install a GFI in your soffit and installing a heat cord on the affected roof and gutter system; this will allow the water to flow and prevent Ice Dams from forming. Always follow the directions for the install of the heat cable and it is a good idea to have the system on a switch that you can control from in the house. I would also recommend finding a company that can remove some of the snow from your roof after heavy snow winters as this winter was. It is a good idea to contact them prior to winter and have them on call when you determine you need them. Keep in mind that it is OK for them to get a small additional fee for the service for the danger involved; but it is not OK to go far and above their normal hourly charge because they can. Find a good reputable company and set a fee for the service ahead of time. If we can be of assistance to you for your ceiling and water damage repair or heat cable installation please contact Southington Painting Company