Freezing temperatures, regular snowfall, and limited daylight make performing home maintenance this time of the year difficult. However, knowing the ways your roof can be damaged will help you decide when to call a roofing contractor for help. The following guide explores a few common issues your roof might experience in the winter.

What Roofing Damage Is Common in the Winter?

1. Water Leaks

Ice dams forming along the edge of your roof can cause major structural issues, as they prevent melted snow from running off the surface. Instead, the water will pool and try to find ways underneath the shingles and into the interior of the home. This moisture can cause damage to the foundation, electrical wiring, and cause mold to develop. 

You can prevent this issue by cleaning your gutters, so there’s no debris to prevent the water from draining properly. Also, make sure there is adequate attic ventilation to keep snow from melting and re-freezing along the edge of the roof. 

2. Gutter & Surface Damage

Snow and ice can add a lot of weight to your roof and gutters. This weight can result in a partial or complete collapse of the structure and cause the gutters to bend or completely pull away from the home.  

Cleaning your gutters and downspouts will help prevent snow and water from freezing and forming heavy icicles and ice dams. To protect the structure overall, have all damaged areas repaired or replaced before the first snowfall of the season. When snow hits, call a snow removal professional to clear your roof safely. 

3. Missing Shingles

Winter storms can produce strong, frigid wind conditions that can tear off loose or old roof shingles. Missing shingles leaves your roof exposed to possible water damage.

Between snowstorms, check the condition of your roof by looking for any missing or damaged shingles. Inspect it from a distance, as you don’t want to injure yourself by climbing on the roof.

Have a professional roofing contractor inspect the structure annually to determine if it will be able to withstand the weather conditions of the season or if repairs are needed.

Whether you need preventative maintenance or repairs, contact the roofing contractors at Fairbanks Roofing. This locally owned roofing company provides quality and cost-effective residential, commercial, and industrial roofing services to clients throughout Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Their licensed, insured, and bonded team has over 30 years of on-the-job experience. Speak to one of their roofing contractors today by calling (907) 474-9402 and visit their website to learn more about their services.