Contractors: They Make Things

Winter is a time of snow, ice, and cold weather that can wreak havoc on homes. One area that often suffers from winter-related damage is the roof. However, despite being such a vulnerable part of the house, many homeowners hold onto several myths and misconceptions about the potential risks to their roofs during these harsh months.

Myth: Snow Is Not Heavy Enough To Cause Damage

Many people assume that snow cannot cause significant harm due to its lightweight nature. While it is true that fresh snowfall may be light and fluffy, accumulated snow can become surprisingly heavy on your rooftop.

Roof collapses due to excessive snow load are not unheard-of occurrences in areas with severe winters. It is crucial for homeowners living in areas prone to heavy snowfall to ensure their roofs are designed according to local building codes outlining the required weight-bearing capacity. Following extremely heavy periods of snow, you should have the roof's supports inspected for signs of damage. In particular, cracks in support beams can be common after intense snow storms.

Myth: Ice Dams Are Harmless And Will Eventually Melt Away

Ice dams may look relatively harmless at first glance, but they pose a more significant threat than most homeowners realize. These ice formations occur when warm air from the home's interior melts rooftop snow. The water from this runoff then refreezes upon contacting colder spots near the eaves.

If left unaddressed, ice dams can lead to many problems, including trapped water leaking into attics causing structural damage, or soaking insulation. This could result in mold growth within walls or ceilings. Additionally, pooling water behind ice dams may seep underneath shingles and cause damage to the roof deck.

Myth: Gutters Do Not Need Attention During Winter Months

Unfortunately, gutters are often overlooked throughout the winter season. However, neglecting your gutter system can have disastrous consequences for your roof. Clogged gutters filled with leaves or debris may prevent melting snow and ice from flowing freely from your roof. Blocked gutters can exacerbate ice dam formation and increase the risk of water infiltration into your home. Unfortunately, you may only notice this problem once it has contributed to major roof damage.

Myth: Metal Roofs Are Immune To Winter Damages

Metal roofs have gained a reputation as being an excellent choice for homeowners living in snowy climates due to their durability and ability to shed accumulating snow easily. However, despite their many benefits in cold weather conditions, metal roofs are not entirely immune to potential risks associated with winter weather. Corrosion and warping are two issues that metal roofs may need to be repaired after a long winter.

For more information, contact a company such as BuildRite Home Pro's.