6 Common Roofing Repairs Made During the Winter Months

Your roof goes through a lot of abuse during the winter months. Due to the wetter weather and temperature drops, the components of your roof can suffer damage. Protecting your roof is critical for damage prevention and high repair or replacement costs. Knowing the common winter roofing repair issues will help you remain proactive during the season.

Your roof is one of the most protective parts of your home. Damage caused by winter’s extreme weather conditions can cost thousands of dollars in repairs. Keep an eye on your home’s roof during the winter to ensure the following issues do not arise, and if they do arise, be sure to get them fixed as soon as possible.

1. Ice Dams and Leaks

Ice dams occur when the attic has inadequate insulation and clogged gutters. Sheets of thick ice form and can cause leaks inside your home. Roof inspections help protect your roof against ice dam formation.

2. Heavy Snow and Roof Collapses

Heavy snow is a problem if your roof is unstable due to wear and tear that occurs with the aging process. Flat roofs are especially prone to heavy snow damage because there is no slope for the snow to fall down the sides. Your home could also experience leaks due to missing or damaged shingles. Keep the snow cleared from your roof with a roof rake to prevent structural damage due to the added weight.

3. Wind Damage and Shingle Damage

Although we often think of wind being a problem during the summer, when thunderstorms rise, they can also occur during the winter. Temperature differences between large air masses can produce heavy winds that lead to shingle damage. Missing shingles put your home in danger because they can cause leaks.

4. Condensation and Rot Damage

You do not have to live in a snowy climate to experience roof damage. If your attic temperature is too warm, cold air from the attic vents can lead to condensation formation. Condensation can collect on ceiling joints and trusses, leading to mold, mildew growth, and eventual rot. Rotten trusses can lead to catastrophic roof damage, including collapses.

5. Fallen Limbs and Holes

Ice and snow build-up on trees and their limbs can lead to hazards. The added weight of the ice and snow can cause weakened trees and limbs to fall on your roof and cause severe damage. Prevent roof damage by having your trees checked and trimmed before winter weather comes into play.

6. Increased Moisture and Flashing Leaks

Whether it be rain, sleet, snow, or ice, increased moisture can lead to roof damage. The most vulnerable areas of your roof are the flashings. Flashings are the thin sheets placed around chimneys and vent pipes. Over time, these can weaken and are prone to leaks when freezing weather and increased moisture meet. Damaged flashing leads to internal leaks.

Roof damage can occur with very little warning during the winter. Prevention is key and involves having your roof inspected and repaired before temperatures drop and winter weather becomes the norm. Now is the time to take action.