Minnesota winters are tough on every part of your house, but your roof takes the brunt of the punishment. High winds, heavy snow accumulation, and melting ice can cause extensive damage, some of which you might not even notice until spring. Understanding the most common causes of winter roof repairs can help you prevent many problems before they start.

3 Common Winter Roofing Issues

1. Ice Dams

Ice dams, caused by snow melting and refreezing as temperatures drop, can be incredibly destructive. As snow melts, the dam traps the runoff, which is effectively forced under your shingles as it freezes again. A skilled roof repair contractor can clear snow and melt ice dams, avoiding many of the issues before water starts running into your attic.

2. Condensation

Winter doesn’t even have to get through your shingles to cause problems. In fact, condensation from the warm air in your house can collect on the underside of your roof, promoting mold growth and eventually rotting away the wood. Many roofing professionals can resolve these issues by installing high-quality insulation in the attic, sealing out warmth and water vapor before it starts eating away at your roof.

3. Flashing Leaks

Many roofing leaks actually start around flashing panels, the aluminum pieces that protect ridges, valleys, and other irregular areas. Damaged or improperly installed flashing allows water to penetrate the structure of your roof, causing immense damage even if the shingles are in perfect condition. Fortunately, replacing flashing is a relatively inexpensive roof repair if it’s caught before it causes extensive water damage.

As one of the St. Paul area’s premier roofing contractors, the experts at Minnesota Roofing Company have the expertise you can rely on to get you through even the coldest winter. With over 20 years of experience and a steadfast dedication to their customers, they’re proud to have you under their roof. Visit their website for more on their roof repair and replacement services, get more tips and insight on Facebook, or call (952) 451-1978 to discuss your problem and request an estimate.