Michigan boasts some of the country’s harshest weather conditions, which can wreak havoc on homes. Your roof serves as the first line of defense for this beating, but that also means it can be very susceptible to damage.
Wind, rain, ice, and snow all pose threats to the integrity of the roof, which puts your entire home at risk.
Thankfully, well-constructed and maintained structures can not only survive but thrive through those frigid months. We’ve outlined some of the most common winter threats, what to look out for, and most importantly, when to reach out for help.
3 Ways Winter Weather Can Damage a Roof
Unfortunately, the beauty of a white winter day can come with challenges for homeowners. Weight, wind, water, and ice test the sturdiness of your roof throughout the season. Read on for how each element poses unique threats and how you can stop them from happening to you.
Heavy Snow Weight
Most residential roofs are designed to withstand a weight of 20 pounds per square foot. That sounds like a decently high number, but snow in Michigan can accumulate in the blink of an eye.
It’s also important to note that the type of snow can affect the strain on your structure; wet and icy snow weighs more than fluffy snowflakes, so less accumulation can still do more damage. Combine the two over time and you could be facing disaster!
Sagging roof lines or cracks in your ceiling can be signs the roof is starting to cave under the weight of winter. Homeowners with flat or lower pitch roofs need to pay even closer attention as the snow or ice is more likely to build up.
Prevention is key if your area receives inches or even feet at a time. Periodically removing the snow or calling in the professionals to take care of it for you safely can be the difference in a comfortable winter and huge damage.
Strong and Gusty Winds
The cold season also brings harsh winds that can send shingles flying. And once you start losing shingles, the elements have an open door into your home.
Further, strong gusts can rip away gutters and downspouts, which means water is no longer being properly diverted from the roof. Not only does that lead to extra weight, but dangerous icicles can form around the edges.
Having a roofing expert perform an inspection before the freezing months arrive can mitigate major issues. You can also consider removing hazards like long branches or dead trees that could be blown directly into the roof.
Water & Ice
Winter weather doesn’t always mean snow. Cold or freezing rain will pelt down on roofs causing its own unique damage. The force of hail can lead to dents or lose shingles, or water frozen in gutters can block proper drainage. With nowhere to go, even more water turns to ice in freezing temps, putting pressure on the overall structure.
Additionally, some people don’t realize that, while cold, a blanket of ice on the roof acts as a sort of insulator. This means that warm air rising from the home below can become trapped, then turn to condensation as it cools again. This can cause internal water damage, so you’ll need to check these spaces on a routine basis, but placing dehumidifiers can serve as a protective first step.
When to Call the Pros
If you notice signs of damage like the mentioned sagging, roof cracks, creaking, or accumulating condensation, it’s time to give a roofing contractor or home improvement service a call.
Even if you’re not yet experiencing warning signs, it can be dangerous to remove snow and ice on your own, so an experienced contractor or roofing specialist will take care of the task while you remain comfortably inside.
Make Sure your Roof and Home are Ready!
Winter in Michigan is a beautiful season. While the amount of snow varies widely between geographic areas, one thing is for certain — when it comes, it can be a risk to your home. If you notice any of the signs discussed above or are simply looking for peace of mind, reach out to our team at Excel Home Improvement today! Our Romulus based home improvement company will ensure your home makes it safely to sunnier days.