It is important that homeowners don’t neglect the exterior of their homes during the winter season, especially the homes roof. Winter weather is particularly hard on a home’s roof. From heavy snow to ice dams there are many warning signs for homeowners to look for to prevent damage to the homes roof. Small roofing problems can easily be repaired before they turn into an expensive new roof needing to be installed. Continue reading for information on what you should be looking for to avoid winter roofing hassles.
Damage Ice Storms
After your area has gone through the experience of an ice storm it important to have the homes roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor. It is hard for the inexperienced eye to spot the damage that occurs from hail and ice but for a roofing contractor it is pretty evident. Ice damage occurs in many forms including deep dimples in the roof surface, cracked shingles, loose asphalt granules and missing roofing aspects.
Ice Dams and Heavy Snow Buildup
Snow always appears so light and fluffy as it falls from the sky. The reality however is that after snow has settled on your roof and had time to thaw from any temperature difference the melted snow is incredibly heavy. This weight puts a great deal of pressure on the roof which can lead to pressure cracks and in turn leaks. A similar concept occurs when snow melts and refreezes around the edge of the roof creating ice dams. Water that would normally run off of the roof has nowhere to go and in turn continues to freeze along the edge. This leads to weight damage on the roof or interior leaks.
Failing Flashing
Harsh winter weather is notorious for the damage that it does to the roofs flashing. Flashing is the metal that is applied over the roof joints to help direct the flow of water. It is also used around skylights, dormer windows, vents and such. Although it is a durable material the winter weather can take a toll on it. If flashing damage goes untreated homeowners can expect to experience leaks and interior water damage.
Winter weather varies a great deal from location to location. Winters here in the north alone vary a great deal. One day we are dealing with temperatures in the upper forties and the next we are experiencing two feet drifts of snow. With this in mind it is important that homeowners get into a routine. Roofing contractors can be hired to do bi-yearly screenings of your homes roof, during the spring and fall to pinpoint problem areas before they become bigger issues. Homeowners should become familiar with their roofs as well in order to perform periodic checks for damage that is above and beyond normal wear and tear.
Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.