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The winter poses many threats to the world outside our windows, but it could also wreak havoc on the roof over your head. While you might associate watery leaks with the spring and summertime, this roofing repair issue can begin while there’s snow on the ground. Use the following three tips to prevent leaks from soaking in.

3 Ways to Prevent Winter Roofing Repair Due to Leaks

1. Eliminating Ice Dams

One of the most common sources of a winter roof leak is an ice dam, a concentration of water stuck in the freeze-thaw cycle. As the snow and ice melt due to the warmth coming from your building, it drifts down to the eaves, only to freeze again and prevent proper drainage. It may even clog up your gutters, allowing moisture to accumulate on your roof until it seeps under the shingles. To prevent ice dams from forming, remove snow and ice from your roof after winter storms, but work gently so as not to damage your roofing directly.

2. Adding Ventilation

roofing repairAnother way to prevent roof leaks is to think inside the box—how is your building’s heat affecting your roof? In some cases, excess heat may be warming up the snow on your roof and causing it to melt down to the eaves even faster, enabling the ice dam formation. Without proper ventilation, the temperature differences could also lead to condensation on the inside of your roof, and along the wall of the attic.

3. Installing Insulation

In other cases, your building may not be withholding its own heat—which not only speeds up the ice dam cycle but also leads to unnecessary heating costs. Since heat rises, your building’s attic will naturally be the warmest zone, so you may need to beef up the insulation to keep the heat from radiating outward. Whether you choose spray foam or padding, the added heat retention will help you save on utilities and roof repairs.

 

If you’re dealing with a roof leak or would like to take action to prevent one, get in touch with Taylor Roofing of Belleville, IL. This trusted roofing contractor works with both industrial and commercial clients, providing repairs and installations throughout the St. Louis metro area. With over 110 years in the industry, they have the skills to safeguard your building and prevent unnecessary roofing repairs. To learn more about their services, visit the website or call (618) 233-2424.

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