The weather that comes with seasonal fluctuations can cause cumulative damage to your roof. Although roofs are designed to be tough and can last years before needing replacement, excessive snow and ice buildup can reduce their lifespan. Let’s discuss how seasonal elements impact your roof along with other important prevention tips for you to consider.
Freeze And Thaw
The biggest problem with snow and ice is the gradual accumulation on your roof during the winter. If your shingles have any cracks, the ice and snow can create serious problems regardless of what type of roof you may have. Even the smallest cracks in your shingles will leave your roof vulnerable to water saturation and eventual leaks.
Snow and ice begin to melt through the cracks, and liquid slowly makes its way toward the interior of your home. Even if the snow and ice don’t melt, the filled-in cracks will expand and grow, making your roof that much more vulnerable to leaks during future rainfall.
Ice Dams
As ice and snow begin to accumulate on your roof, ice dams start to form as well. Ice damming refers to the process where snow and ice melting on your roof flow down and then freeze at the edge of your roof, holding the rest of the water back. Ice dams cause serious gutter issues and sometimes might even cause the flashing on your roof to tear.
Stress
Roof stress is another factor that can affect a roof\’s lifespan. Heavy accumulation of snow and ice can place extreme strain on your roof. This stress can eventually prove detrimental. Roofs in Texas aren\’t designed to support that kind of weight. When ice dams block the flow of water, they will create even bigger blocks of ice.
These ice blocks tend to be quite heavy and put the roof under immense stress. We suggest that homeowners keep an eye on any gradual accumulation during particularly long stretches of cold weather.
How To Prevent Snow & Ice Problems?
Help protect your roof from seasonally accumulated damage by making sure that it is properly maintained throughout the year. Diligent maintenance is the only way to guarantee a long lifespan for your roof.
Assess and photograph your roof at least once every two months and look for any cracks or ice buildup that might create a problem in the future. If anything starts to look different, call the professionals at First Out Roofing to take a look.
First Out Roofing
Snow and ice will not be much of a problem if you are diligent about roof maintenance and inspection. Always rely on a competent service that looks after your roof and performs annual maintenance checks to prevent future complications.
First Out Roofing prides itself on providing great roofing services at prices you can afford, including 24-hour post-storm inspections. Our team also handles leak repairs, decking, windows and doors, and even home remodeling. For more information or a free quote, call or visit our website today! Because diligent maintenance begins with a diligent roofing company.
