The answer to 'why is my soffit ice dams' is that ice dams form when heat from your home escapes through the roof, causing snow on the roof to melt and refreeze at the roof's edge. This creates a dam that prevents proper drainage, leading to water damage in your soffits and other areas.
Common causes include poor insulation, ventilation issues, and heat loss through the roof. Symptoms include icicles, pooling water, and visible ice buildup on the roof. Solutions may include improving insulation, sealing air leaks, and installing heating cables or other ice dam prevention systems. If the problem persists, it's best to call a professional roofer to diagnose and address the underlying issues.