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Community Corner

MEC mini-workshop on ice dams

Learn how to prevent ice dams at MEC’s mini-workshop

Those icicles hanging off the roof may look pretty and can make for some nifty looking New England winter photos – but homeowners should take heed. They’re called ice dams and can create all kinds of damage to your home.

Simple steps such as insulating, air sealing and properly ventilating your home can help prevent ice dams – and also save energy.

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On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Melrose Energy Commission (MEC) is hosting a mini-workshop at the Melrose Public Library, 69 West Emerson St., on ice dams and their prevention. This free program, which begins at 7 p.m., is part of the Melrose Energy Challenge, an ongoing effort by the MEC and Next Step Living to educate Melrose residents about various ways to save energy.

In this case, it’s not only about saving energy. Ice dams can cause water-stained ceilings, roof and gutter damage, peeling paint, and damage to interior walls. The water seepage can also lead to mold and mildew.

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At the mini-workshop, Travis Estes of Next Step Living, a Mass Save participating Home Performance Contractor, will be making a 20-minute presentation before fielding questions.  

“This is the time to address these issues, before the melting water seeps through your walls and creates big problems,” said MEC co-chair Ellen Katz. “There are easy remedies, such as better insulation, air sealing and proper ventilation. For many of these solutions, there are Mass Save rebates that can help offset the costs. In many cases, a home energy assessment can diagnose the problem before any damage occurs.”

A major focus of the Melrose Energy Challenge is encouraging local residents to sign up for a free home energy assessment. So far more than 100 homeowners have taken the “Challenge” and had their homes assessed. At the mini-workshop, residents will be able to receive information and sign up for an assessment. For further details, see the Melrose Energy Commission Web site (www.melroseenergy.org).

This program is the kickoff to a monthly series that will help residents learn about saving energy and taking better care of their homes. Future Melrose Energy Challenge mini-workshops will include weatherization of historic homes, energy-efficient windows and home HVAC systems. Melrose residents are welcome to submit ideas for the workshops by e-mailing the MEC at info@melroseenergy.org.

For further information, contact the Melrose Energy Commission at info@melroseenergy.org or 781-662-2616.

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