Watch Out for These Winter Roof Problems

For those living in wintery states where the weather is particularly harsh, especially for those who live in states like Oklahoma, Missouri, and Illinois, it’s important to keep a close eye on potential roof problems. If residents and business owners do not pay attention, several issues could creep up leading to expensive roof repairs and other structural issues.

Watch out for these winter roof problems:

These are common winter issues faced by those experiencing harsh Oklahoma weather. Not only are these problems common, but there are preventative measures that can be taken.

Condensation:

Condensation occurs when warm air meets cold surfaces. This is noticeable on windows outside walls, as well as on mirrors in bathrooms when a hot shower is running. If a roof, no matter if it is residential or commercial, is not properly insulated, condensation could potentially form. This winter roof problem leads to the growth of mildew and mold. This mildew and mold growth causes structural issues in the roof, as well as in the rest of the construction. Proper ventilation ensures a roof will not build up condensation.

Even though attic ventilation is an important part of good roof construction, many builders often overlook this detail. Sometimes it is due to lack of experience, and other times it is an unfortunate oversight. When a roof does not receive enough ventilation, the built up condensation causes ice dams. Not only do these ice dams cause damage to the roof’s structure, but they also reduce the lifetime of the roof. Even though people understand that attic ventilation is important for controlling indoor temperatures and reduce energy, many people fail to realize how damaging improper ventilation is.

Ice Dams:

As frustrating as they are, ice dams are common throughout residential and commercial homes in Oklahoma throughout the winter. When water and ice accumulate on the roof and under the shingles, ice dams are formed. When the upper portions of the roof are at temperatures that are above the freezing level and the lower portions of the roof are below freezing, then ice dams form. It is common for snow on the upper portions of the roof to melt because it is warmer in that section and, as the water flows down to the colder portions of the roof, it refreezes. These lower sections of the roof include the gutters. Ice dams melt and could leak into the joints and cracks on the exterior of the structure, which could lead to costly damage.

Not only are ice dams a nightmare to deal with, but the extensive water damage that could occur to the structure is difficult to deal with. While every homeowner and business owner would love hearing there are absolute preventative ways to keep ice dams from occurring, this is not the case. However, there are ways to minimize the problem. If the roof is insulated well, and the attic’s ventilation system is adequate, then homeowners and business owners are properly defending their structures against ice dams.

Icicles:

Icicles are an ice dam’s evil twin. They tend to mirror the same formation under the same conditions as ice dams to – sunny days that are followed by temperatures that are below the freezing level. When downspouts and gutters become clogged, it is not uncommon for icicles to appear. Falling icicles present a danger to people and their pets. That is not the only problem, though. The weight that builds up from the icicles causes gutter damage, and it can also cause damage to the roof.

In order to prevent this problem from occurring, it is best to keep the gutters cleaned regularly. Make sure all debris, including leaves and twigs, is cleared out completely before freezing temperatures start sweeping throughout the region. When the winter weather starts becoming less harsh, inspect the gutters regularly to ensure no additional debris has accumulated throughout the season. These preventative measures help keep icicles from forming and from becoming a problem later on in the season.

The bottom line:

For those who are unsure where to begin or what to watch out for, contact a roofing contractor. Not only will they perform all the necessary inspections, but they will ensure preventative measures are in place. These professionals know what Oklahoma winters are like, and they work with each client thoroughly to ensure damage does not occur to their roof.