How Does Winter Weather Affect Residential Roofing?

What to Look For

Ice dams form when the temperature of your home roof is higher than that of the eaves. As snow melts on the warm roof, the water travels downward towards the eaves. This water freezes as an ice sheet once it reaches the cold eaves, preventing future meltwater from escaping. If the ice dam persists, the water takes the path of least resistance by seeping into your home’s ceilings and walls.

Huge icicles can be a sign of insufficient insulation within your home. As a result, icicles can form and put added weight along the edge of the roof, especially on gutters. Gutters fulfill the important purpose of diverting water away from your home. However, icicles can compromise the roof’s structural integrity, causing gutters to tear away. The extra weight of snow, particularly wet snow, can cause similar problems for residential roofing.

Below are a few tips to help you protect your new roof from the winter elements:

• Use heated cables to prevent ice dams.
• Use a long-handled snow rake to scrape off snow along roof edges.
• Increase insulation in needed areas.
• Aim fan in attic to blast cold air at the leak’s source.

If you notice ice dams on your roof, do NOT try to hack at the ice with a shovel or similar tool. This will only cause more damage, especially to the roof shingles. Responsible homeowners make sure to keep tabs on their roof’s condition, especially during the winter months. If you notice anything suspicious with your roof’s performance, don’t hesitate to give our roofing contractors a call.

How We Can Help

Our roofing contractors have years of experience with helping homeowners in West Michigan. If you suspect your roof has issues that can only be resolved by professionals, please do not hesitate to call our local roofers. We can send out one of our workers for a roof inspection. If you need roof leak repair, we’ll provide you with a consultation so you can determine the next step. We pride ourselves on offering competitive rates for roof repair and other roofing services.

During the winter months, we strongly advise homeowners not to attempt getting on their roof. Snow and ice can make your roof a slippery unsafe surface to walk on. Even when your roof is dry, it’s best to stay on the ground if you lack the proper training or tools. Let the professionals handle your residential roofing needs, especially during the winter.