Winter weather in Kentuckiana can be harsh, which means roof damage from snow and ice is likely during winter storms. Snow, ice, and high winds can all wreak havoc on your roof, causing leaks, cracks, and even collapse.
Thankfully, there are some things you can do to protect your roof from winter weather damage. In this blog post, we’ll share some practical tips for keeping your roof in good shape all winter long. So whether you’re dealing with a little bit of snow or a full-blown blizzard, read on to find out how to keep your home’s roof safe and sound!
Winter weather can cause your roof to leak
Cold temperatures that cause roof shingles to expand and contract can cause roof leaks, as those roof materials may become deficient over time. Additionally, frozen precipitation followed by thawing can also lead to roof leaks due to the potential buildup of melting snow and ice on the roof, along with clogged gutters and downspouts that are unable to drain water properly.
Be sure to have your roof inspected during the winter to get any roof damage from snow and ice taken care of quickly before the weather causes too much damage or requires costly repairs or replacements.
Ice dams can form on your roof and cause water damage
Ice dams are ice accumulations on the edges of your roof that can cause major damage to your home’s structure and contents. It starts when the snow melts off the top of your roof, making its way into your gutters.
Without proper maintenance, gutters become clogged with ice and freeze up in cold temperatures, which prevents water from draining away properly. Instead, the water pools above the ice dam and eventually seeps back under the roof shingles. This can cause serious water damage to roof structures as well as create an ideal environment for mold growth.
With preventative measures like keeping gutters clear and addressing any pre-existing moisture issues inside your house, you can avoid water and structural damage associated with ice dams.
Snow and ice can weigh down your roof and cause it to collapse
Roof damage from snow and ice can also include complete roof collapse. Roof collapse is one of the most common roof-related problems caused by winter weather. To prevent roof collapse and other roof problems, owners should inspect their roofs annually to keep them healthy and in good condition.
Additionally, clearing off any accumulated snow or ice should be done regularly during the winter months to help ensure the safety of your roof.
An Ounce of Caution Can Prevent Roof Damage from Snow and Ice
Keep an eye on your roof this winter, especially after a heavy snowfall. If you see any leaks or water damage, call the SkyGuard Home team to come and take a look.
And if you have icicles forming on your roof, remove them as soon as possible – they could be the start of an ice dam.
