We usually don’t have to contend with a lot of harsh winter weather here in theSouth. Leave it to Mother Nature to throw a wrench into that plan with a whoppingsnowstorm that has adults wiping out the grocery stores and kids rejoicing at areaschool closings, scurrying to create make-shift sleds to enjoy the onslaught of thesnow and ice.
Aside from the general preparedness you go through, there are a few things youshould be aware of concerning your home’s structure and how it responds to ice,sleet, and snow. We all know to check for damage when we’ve had hail, but Dr. Roofhas some important tips for you when it comes to ice and snow storms as well.
Ice buildup on your roof’s edges can lead to “ice damming,” which can allow water(specifically the drippings from melted snow or ice) to enter your home. To createa visual for you—have you ever left a bottle in the freezer too long and learned thehard way that expanding ice will burst out of its container? The same is true forsnow and ice on your roof. It can melt, drip down, and then freeze and expand whenthe temps dip, creating an “ice dam” that backs ice up and under parts of your roof.This expansion upward and underneath your shingles and its sheer force can ripapart portions of your roof that haven’t been properly installed or sealed. It can alsoallow water to find a way into your home through a route that traditional rainwaterdoesn’t travel.
The average homeowner seldom checks the attic for damage after a storm,therefore, if water or condensation is present, if often goes undetected until itescalates into a larger problem. Also, if you observe icicles hanging from your roof,there is a strong chance your attic has a problem with condensation.
Our crews are on alert and will work hard to respond to your repair requests in atimely and efficient manner during this storm and always. What’s more, you cancount on Dr. Roof to install or repair your roof in such a way that you’ll be less likelyto contend with future problems.
How is your roof holding up this winter? What can we do for you? Are you waveringbetween replacing or repairing your roof? Our professionals can help you make aneducated decision.