Winter is arguably the harshest season to any roof, especially to those that can’t drain water efficiently. The cold can cause many roofing components to experience thermal shock, for the outside temperature could drop sharply after a relatively warm period during the day. The winter could also bring strong winds and large hailstones, which are destructive in their own ways.
Considering that the chances of storm damage are higher during this time of year, you should put more emphasis on a cursory assessment to head off major leaks.
Watch Out for Ice Dams
Snow buildup can be detrimental to your roof, but it is a natural phenomenon. Ice damming is a different story. It is a result of uneven roof surface temperatures, causing the snow at higher areas to melt and refreeze upon reaching the edges.
Ice dams put a lot of stress on your roof because of their heft. Also, they are literally frozen water, which can back up, penetrate the gaps and infiltrate the interior of your house as the temperature rises. Even worse, icicles can seriously injure anyone when they fall without warning.
Look for Sagging Gutters
Gutters are more likely to clog in the winter for several reasons. First, they may be full of dead foliage after the fall, preventing the water from flowing freely because of the blockage. Second, the water may not even move at all because it is frozen. Third, ice damming can occur.
Without strong support, clogged gutters could collapse under their own weight. It is imperative to catch any cases of sagging early to address these issues accordingly.
Search for Wet Spots in the Attic
Naturally, the attic is the first room to fall victim to roof leaks. Every reputable storm damage restoration company will attest that soaked insulation as well as wet flooring and walls are indicative of water leakage.
Keep your roofing system intact throughout the winter. Call Dynasty Restoration Inc. at (402) 205-2877 to set up an inspection and receive a free estimate for any roof restoration services you may need.
