What can occur due to heat leakage into attics in cold climates?

Heat leakage into attics in cold climates can lead to the formation of ice dams. When warm air from the living space escapes into the attic, it warms the underside of the roof. This causes the snow on the roof to melt, and the water runs down towards the eaves, where it often becomes cooler. If the eaves are colder than the peak of the roof, the melted water can freeze again, creating ice dams. These dams can prevent further melting snow from draining off the roof, leading to water backing up under the shingles. This water intrusion can eventually cause significant damage to the roof structure, as well as leaks into the attic and living space below.

Understanding this process is critical for home inspectors, as ice dams are a common issue in areas with cold winters and can result in costly repairs. The other options, while they may relate to general issues in attics or homes, do not directly result from the phenomenon of heat leakage and subsequent ice dam formation.