Four Types of Winter Roof Damage In Newark, Ohio

Winter is a difficult time – not only on our bodies, but also on our homes and buildings. All too often, roofs are seriously damaged due to the onslaught of ice, hail, and cold wind. We’ve put together a list of four weather problems that can cause roof damage and how you can avoid them.

1. Icicles. We aren’t talking about the type of icicles that we hang from our Christmas tree; instead, we’re taking about the long pieces of ice that freeze on the edges of houses and gutters. While icicles are beautiful to look at, they certainly don’t have a beautiful effect on a home. Gutters and shingles can suffer serious consequences from the build-up of ice. You can do your part to stop icicles in their tracks by adding insulation to your home and eliminating any air leaks on the roof. Icicles that have already formed can be removed using a rake or shovel to reach up and knock them down.

2. Ice Dams. While these are a lot like icicles, they are even more serious. Ice dams form when snow melts off the roof, runs to the edge, and then freezes there, creating a barrier that holds the future snow and moisture on the roof. The large amount of moisture held to your roof can damage the shingles and get into your home. Like icicles, ice dams can usually be prevented with adequate insulation and ventilation of attics; however, it can also help to make sure your gutters are clean before the first snow hits.

3. Moisture in the Attic. Sometimes the ice on roofs can cause built up moisture within the attic. While a little bit of wet condensation may be easy enough to shrug off, it can ultimately lead to mold and mildew. Ventilation is the only way to keep condensation from building up in the attic, and you can stop mold by immediately repairing leaks. Also, check appliances for malfunctions since they can lead to extra moisture build-up.

4. Snow-covered Roofs. Snow-covered roofs make a beautiful picture for greeting cards and calendars, but snow can actually cause serious damage when it is left on a roof. Wet snow is especially bad for roofs since the heavy weight can cause major problems. While we can’t do anything to determine how much snow sticks to our roofs or how wet it will be, it is vital to stay alert and be aware of what is going on with the snow on your home. If the snow leads to leaks, cracks, or sagging, you should get immediate help from a professional.

While the winter weather can wreak serious havoc on a home or business roof, it is never beyond repair. By keeping an eye on the situation and working to repair problems before they get worse, you can ensure that the elements will never be able to cause serious damage.

Contact us today to learn more about our roof restoration services and how we can help you keep your roof safe during the cold winter months.