When winter weather comes to town, you’re probably cozy indoors – not craning your neck to inspect your roof. However, ice and snow can do a real number on your roofing system, and failing to spot those problems in time could mean your roof ends up with a nasty leak (or worse).
To help you protect your home, here are the four most common signs of winter roof damage, plus tips on how to protect your roof from anything winter throws at it.
Top Signs of Winter Roof Damage
You don’t need to scale a ladder to spot roof issues. Roofs exhibit telltale signs when they’re struggling, including the following ones you can spot from the ground:
Water Leaks in the Attic
Head up to your attic with a flashlight and check for:
- Water dripping from the rafters
- Damp spots on wood or insulation
- Mold or mildew growth
These signs often point to a compromised roof, allowing moisture to seep inside.
Ice Dams
Ice dams are thick ridges of ice that form along the edges of your roof when melting snow refreezes. These can block proper drainage and force water under shingles, leading to significant damage.
Blocked Gutters or Gutter Damage
Gutters clogged with ice, leaves or debris signal poor drainage and can lead to water pooling on your roof. Damages or sagging gutters may also indicate ice buildup, which stresses the roof’s edge.
Cracked or Missing Shingles
After a heavy snowstorm, inspect your yard for stray shingles or look up at your roof from the ground. Snow and ice can cause shingles to crack, warp, or come loose.
How To Protect Your Roof From Winter Damage
During winter, ice dams are by far the biggest danger to your home’s roof. They can cause leaks and, if not promptly addressed, even trigger your roof to collapse.
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to prevent winter roof damage, such as:
1. Improve attic insulation. Heat rises, and without proper insulation, warm air escapes into your attic, melting snow on the roof and creating ice dams. Adequate insulation keeps heat where it belongs – inside your home.
2. Ensure proper attic ventilation. Good ventilation allows air to flow freely through roof vents, soffits, and eaves, helping regulate temperatures and preventing ice dam formation.
3. Regularly clean your gutters. Clear gutters and downspouts of debris to prevent clogs that can lead to water pooling on your roof.
4. Remove heavy snow buildup. A snow-covered roof adds extra weight that stresses the structure. Use a roof rake to safely remove excess snow without climbing onto the roof.
5. Trim overhanging branches. Winter storms can snap branches, causing them to fall on your roof and damage shingles or gutters. Prune back trees to reduce the risk.
6. Schedule professional inspections. Annual roof inspections by a qualified contractor can catch issues early, giving you peace of mind all winter.
Call MUNZ Roofing and Siding for Winter Roof Repairs
Winter roof damage can be dangerous to address on your own, especially during icy conditions. Trust the experts at MUNZ Roofing and Siding to inspect, repair and protect your roof.
Serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania, we’re here to keep your home safe and sound all season long.
Call us today at (215) 660-3839 to schedule an inspection to repair. Don’t wait – let us help keep your roof damage at bay!
