Icicles Over Entry Doors

[Jason Andler]

I was at one of my properties today to handle a different issue, but I noticed a bunch of icicles hanging off the gutters about 20' above walking areas. I had some large icicles in the past but this year I thoroughly cleaned the gutters after all the leaves had fallen thinking this would eliminate the icicles. I was able to use a ladder to remove what was there, but the roof is still covered in snow and there's quite a bit of winter left. I have not had any complaints or even been notified, but I told my tenants to be cautious when walking around. 

My thought is that the heat from the house may be melting the snow on the roof and then it freezes again once its in the gutters. Does anyone have any tricks for keeping icicles from hanging off the gutters?

Thanks for any advice!

[Jason Andler]

@Scott Mac

Thanks Scott. I am aware of that, which is why I removed them. I would prefer to prevent them in the future so I am not running around knocking down icicles.