Winter can cause significant issues for your home. One of the most vulnerable areas is the roof, which can be severely damaged by inclement weather like snowfall and ice buildup. Be aware of the following three problems that might prompt you to contact a roofing contractor. 

A Guide to Winter Roofing Issues

1. Limb Damage

Your trees add beauty to your outdoor space, but during winter, they can also contribute to a potentially harmful situation if they tower over the roof. Long limbs can graze the surface and scrape against asphalt shingles. Areas that are already weak due to moisture intrusion may be at risk of getting punctured if the underlayment has softened up from exposure to snow and ice. This can lead to catastrophic leaks. You can avoid these issues by trimming any long branches that come within several feet of the roof.

2. Ice Dams

Ice dams develop when the temperature at the topmost portion of the roof is above 32 degrees, and the temperature at the lowest points is below freezing. As snow and ice from up above melts and flows down, it eventually refreezes upon making contact with the freezing area. This causes a dam to develop, and any moisture behind it will back up and may eventually seep through minuscule cracks and into your home. A roofing contractor can resolve this before the first snowfall by repairing leaks and assessing the quality of your attic’s ventilation. Adequate ventilation will prevent the warm interior air from mingling with the colder exterior air on the roof.

3. Condensation

Condensation forms whenever warm air touches a cold surface. If your attic does not have sufficient insulation, then both the roof and the attic may be at risk of suffering damage due to the excessive moisture. Common problems include mold formation beneath the underlayment and inside the attic, along with telltale wet steaks on wooden beams. Ask your roofing contractor about improving the system by adding ventilation to the roof ridges, eaves, and gable for greater security.
 

Are you concerned about potential roof problems this winter? Turn to the roofing contractors at Coast to Coast Contracting & Development in Hayward, WI. Proudly serving clients throughout Northwest WI since 2001, the company offers a variety of services, including home additions, new constructions, and kitchen and bathroom remodels. Visit them online for details, or call them at (715) 790-0662 to schedule an appointment.