When it comes to winter weather, homeowners know that our homes can take a beating. When temperatures drop and snow accumulates, the exterior of our home is vulnerable to damage from the elements. One of the most common types of damage in winter is roof damage due to extreme cold, ice buildup, and heavy snowfall. Twin Cities Siding and Roofing, a local siding repair expert, discuss some of the best ways to mitigate winter roof damage.
Overview of Winter Roof Damage
The primary causes of winter roof damage are freezing temperatures combined with heavy snowfall or ice buildup on your roof. This can lead to leaks, cracks, and even structural collapse if left unchecked for too long. Other factors, such as poor ventilation or inadequate insulation, can increase the chances of serious winter-related damage to your home’s exterior.
Common types of winter roof damage include:
- Frozen pipes leading into attics or other areas
- Damaged shingles due to icy winds
- Cracked flashing
- Ice dams caused by melting snow re-freezing at eaves
- Damaged gutters due to falling icicles and debris build up around vents leading into attics
Best Practices To Mitigate Winter Roof Damage
Early detection through regular inspections by an experienced professional roofing and siding contractor is crucial in reducing your home’s risk for major winter damage. Proactive maintenance throughout all seasons also prevents costly damages caused during severe winters in the area.
Regular Inspections
Professional contractors recommend having your roof inspected twice yearly during the spring and fall to ensure that any minor issues are identified before they become more expensive repairs later. Maintain detailed records of these inspections as they can serve as documented evidence should you need them later.
Roof Ventilation
Ventilation plays a vital role in reducing winter roof damage. Proper ventilation can help to keep the temperature of your roof at a consistent level, which prevents ice and snow from accumulating on it. This also reduces moisture buildup inside the attic, preventing mold and mildew growth which can lead to structural damage if left unchecked.
Additionally, proper ventilation will allow warm air to circulate throughout your home, helping you maintain comfortable temperatures even when outdoor temperatures are low.
Insulation
Insulating your attic is another crucial step in mitigating winter roof damage. Adequate insulation will help keep cold air out while retaining warm air indoors during colder months. This reduces the chances of ice dams forming on your roof and keeps moisture from building up inside walls or ceilings. It’s recommended that homeowners check their insulation levels annually or whenever they notice a change in temperature indoors vs. outdoors, especially during extreme winter months.
Ice and Snow Removal
Removing snow and ice build-up from roofs is essential for avoiding costly repairs due to weather-related damages. The best way to do this safely is to hire an experienced professional contractor with access to proper equipment to navigate the rooftop safely.
With these tips in mind, you should be able to enjoy a safe and comfortable winter without worrying about costly weather-related damages. So, when getting your roof inspected for winter damage, it should be done not just by any run-of-the-mill exterior remodeler but by an Angie’s List Certified professional siding contractor. Contact Twin Cities Siding and Roofing today at (651) 967-0873 to schedule a consultation. You can also complete our convenient online form to get started. We serve Minneapolis, the Twin Cities, and other neighboring areas.
