What does the term "elevated ice" refer to in roofing?

The term "elevated ice" specifically refers to the phenomenon where melting snow on a roof, typically during warmer periods, begins to freeze again in cooler areas of the roof, particularly at the eaves or along the edges where the roof is less insulated. This formation occurs due to the combination of heat from the building causing snow to melt and the colder outside temperatures at the roof's edge leading to the refreezing of this meltwater. This cycle of melting and refreezing can result in significant ice buildup, commonly known as ice dams.

Such ice dams can create various roofing issues, including water leakage into the home as melted water backs up behind the dam. Therefore, understanding elevated ice is crucial for effective roofing maintenance and management, particularly in climates that experience significant snowfall and temperature fluctuations. The other options do not accurately describe this specific process, as they address unrelated aspects of ice in roofing contexts.