When the weather gets cold your roof is at its most likely to suffer damage. Between ice dams, condensation, and pests looking for a warm refuge there are a number of threats to your roofs safety. So, let’s take a look at what the most common roofing issues are that you should keep an eye out for to prevent damage to your home’s roof this winter.
Ice Buildup
Often if your homes roof suffers from either poorly installed or maintained insulation or ventilation it is at risk of ice dams and icicles. These typically build up along the edge of your roof line and are caused by portions of your roof developing different temperatures. When one part of your roof is warm enough to melt snow and ice the water runs down before freezing on a colder part of the roof. This results in ice accumulating and building up into ice dams and icicles. The way to prevent this is by properly insulating your roof but not to tightly in order to allow air circulation to prevent uneven temperatures.
Condensation
It’s safe to say your home is likely going to be warmer inside than out this winter and this is a recipe for condensation. It is pretty safe to say that this is the single most common issue roofs suffer from in winter and this is caused by improper ventilation. Without proper ventilation condensation is allowed to build up leading to mold and mildew which is a serious issue. To prevent this your roof will need a properly installed ventilation system that will keep warm air from contacting the underside of your cold roof.
Flashing Leaks
Flashing covers the gaps between different portions of your roofing system in order to keep moisture out and these typically thin pieces of metal are often the first part of your roof to leak in the winter. Between powerful winds and the rapid freezing and thawing winter brings you flashing can suffer a lot of damage and often corrosion. In order to prevent these pieces from giving out when the weather is at its worst it is a good idea to have flashing inspected before the weather gets too cold.
Nearby Tree Branches
A number of threats to your roof during the winter months simply cannot be predicted and prevented in advance but one common cause is, nearby tree branches. Low hanging branches risk scraping and pulling up shingles letting water get underneath. A large tree branch falling onto your roof may even pierce right through. The best way to prevent damage is to simply trim branches back at least six feet from your roof.
Pests
Whenever there is even a small gap in any part of your roof small pests such as mice or even squirrels may find it to be a nice place to live. Even a small gap can be welcoming enough for these creatures to simply gnaw it wider until they can fit. Instead of laying out traps it is better to simply inspect your roof and seal any gaps before winter begins.
Final Thoughts
The winter months bring the roughest season for your roof and it is a good idea to make sure your roof is ready for it and keep an eye out for any issues that arise. This can keep your roofing system in good shape and prevent costly and inconvenient damage that may be difficult to fix this winter.
Contact Us
If your home or business’s roof needs any inspections or maintenance to get ready for the winter months ahead contact North Shore Roofing. Our full licensed roofers are ready to help you keep your home or business safe and warm this winter with more than 30 years of experience serving customers in Greater Boston. Call us at (978) 977-3816 and connect with us on Facebook.
