Dealing with roofing problems at any time of the year can be challenging, but winter poses a set of unique threats that can threaten its integrity and endanger your home. The combination of heavy snow, punishing winds, and ice can all take their toll on the roof and create issues. Although a home improvement professional can handle repairs and replacements as needed, it’s always smart to understand just what kind of effect cold weather can have on your roof. Here’s what you need to know.

How Winter Can Affect Your Rooftop

1. Ice Dams

Ice dams develop when temperatures on the roof vary from one spot to the next. If the uppermost areas are higher than 32 degrees Fahrenheit while the lower areas remain at a freezing point, any water that melts downward will refreeze. This causes dams to develop.

Any additional water that seeps downward can soak through the roofing material if it’s already compromised and cause extensive water damage. Removing the snow with a rake can be helpful, but don’t do this on your own if it’s not safe—it’s always smarter to have a home improvement expert assist if possible.

2. Icicles

Icicles may look beautiful, but they can prove especially dangerous when they’re suspended from the sides of the roof or over any upstairs windows. If they fall, they could cause injury to any passersby or pets, or even damage your property. The best way to prevent them from forming is to make sure that your gutters are completely clean so that moisture can comfortably flow through and away from the home. You can also sweep away any snow from the roof for additional prevention.

3. Condensation

One of the greatest threats to the roof’s structure is condensation. It occurs when the warmth in the air comes into contact with the roof’s cold surface. If the attic isn’t properly insulated, it will only create a healthy environment for condensation to develop. This can quickly lead to extensive mold and mildew growth and may even cause damage to the inside of the house if it’s not caught quickly enough. Have a home improvement professional inspect the attic to confirm that it’s properly insulated before winter arrives.

Ice and snow may look beautiful, but they can pose a significant threat to the integrity of your roof. You can trust in the remodeling team at Murphy Home Improvement to assist you with any concerns that you have. Proudly serving Cincinnati, OH, for more than 30 years, they offer a wide range of services. They can easily handle your leaking roof or repair water and structural damage. They also offer a broad range of other home improvement options, including the installation of windows, siding, doors, and awnings. Visit their website to learn more or call them at (513) 922-8989.