Winter weather can be difficult for residential roofs. Heavy snowfall, ice build-up, and temperature swings can test the lifespan, efficiency, and overall function. Snow and ice build-up is also common, especially in Michigan, adding weight and possibly causing structural damage if not addressed promptly.
Residential roofs need to be well maintained to hold up their primary role of providing protection.
Another Common Issue Affecting Roofs
Ice dams that occur when snow melts and refreezes at the edges of your roof can lead to water backups underneath shingles, creating leaks. The wind and freezing rain can loosen or destroy shingles while freeze-thaw cycles can take advantage of existing fissures or weaknesses.
How to Ensure Your Roof is Doing Its Job
• Inspect Before Winter: Regular inspections at the start of the season are recommended. Check for cracked, missing or floppy shingles, in addition to which damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights should be included.
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ice dams can be caused by clogged gutters. Make sure the gutters are clean of debris which can also make proper water drainage possible.
• Check for Leaks and Insulation: Check if your home has been subject to roof leaks. The biggest sign is water stains or drops on the ceilings. This happens when ventilation and insulation isn’t sufficient and the heat inside the home melts the snow and ice quickly, instead of slowly.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: When branches are too close to the home and create an overhang, heavy snow buildup may break the branches causing damage to the roof.
• Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular roof maintenance yearly. An experienced roofing contractor can address any issues saving you from bigger problems down the road.
How to Assess Roof Efficiency
• Energy Bills: If your heating bills are unusually high that may point to bad insulation or ventilation, thereby leading to an ineffectiveness of your roof.
• Even Snow Coverage: A roof that has a layer of snow on it that is evenly distributed is one that is very likely to be insulated well as it minimizes heat loss unevenly and melting of snow.
• Inspect Shingles: Roof shingles should not be damaged or misplaced to be effective and withstand the force of wind, rain and heavy snow. Also, broken shingles will not be able to do their job well, creating a great er risk of leaks
• Check for Ice Dams: The occurrence of ice dams regularly indicates that the roof is losing heat. This can be solved through the fixing of the insulation or ventilation.
By applying the measures above and taking care of the potential problems before they can cause damage, you can be sure that your roof can endure the cold of the winter and fulfills its role of protection.
Rely on Trusted Roofing Contractors in Michigan
If you are in any doubt, you can always rely on the roofing contractors at Excel Home Improvement in Romulus. Our roofing services include roof maintenance and repair, making sure the roof on your home is sturdy and efficient to handle any type of extreme weather from cold to hot. Our roof installation services are sought after by homeowners throughout the area due to our earned reputation of providing the best residential roofing services around.
When it comes to home improvement services, we’ve got the exterior covered. From new siding, to gutters, soffit repair and trim, the outside of your home will be the best looking and most durable on the street. Get a Free Estimate on any service today!