Common winter roof problems can be made much worse by the constant freezing and thawing of winter activity. And while it can be hazardous to handle roofing problems during the winter, waiting until spring can make the existing problem worse. Request an inspection now to have a worry-free holiday season!
1. Attic Condensation
When a cold surface meets warm air, condensation will occur. Unfortunately, an improperly insulated attic is a prime candidate for the formation of condensation, which can lead to mold and mildew, damaging the interior structure of your home. To prevent condensation, ensure your attic is properly ventilated.
Attic ventilation is a significant part of a healthy roof system, yet it’s often overlooked. While you may know that attic ventilation helps control indoor temperature and saves energy costs, you may not realize that improper ventilation can damage your roof, create ice dams and reduce your roof’s overall lifespan.
2. Tree Limbs
Large trees provide great scenery and added property value, but during the winter, large trees can pose some serious problems. Tree limbs hanging over the roof can become burdened with large amounts of snow or ice and damage the roof’s protective top layer.
Branches that fall onto your roof can cause serious problems. Fallen branches trap large amounts of snow, allow for pooled water, and scrape away the roof’s protective layer.
A good rule of thumb is to make sure your roof has a 10-foot radius that’s clear of any branches.
Go around your yard and inspect trees for:
- signs of rot and decay
- dead limbs
- snapped and hanging branches
- large branches close to the roof
3. Pre-existing Damage
If your home was impacted by severe weather earlier this year and you have not had a roof inspection yet, lingering damage could be made worse by the cold weather this season. The accumulation of snow/ice and the subsequent fluctuation of winter temperatures can lead to leaks, mold growth, and structural deterioration.
What Can You Do Right Now?
If you haven’t yet had a seasonal roof inspection, now’s the time! Our dedicated staff of roofing professionals will be happy to help you understand your roof’s potential problems and prevent small problems from turning into costly roof repairs this winter. Contact us online or by calling 587-400-7141 today!