Your residential roofing system plays a significant role in protecting your home from the elements. During winter, it’s more vulnerable to developing problems because of more frequent exposure to rain, ice, and snow. Here are three common roofing issues all homeowners should recognize so that you can promptly contact a professional to schedule repairs.

A Guide to Winter Roofing Issues

1. Tree Limb Damage

Long tree branches above your home aren’t just unsightly, but they can also pose a threat to your home during the coldest months of the year. As snow, ice, and moisture remnants weigh them down, they’re more likely to succumb to the pressure and fall close to your home. They could potentially scratch asphalt shingles or even puncture those that are already weakened due to existing water damage or old age. Shingle loss can lead to widespread moisture intrusion, mold formation, and leaks, so it’s best to trim any excess branches before winter weather arrives.

2. Ice Dam Formation

Ice dams develop when moisture that settles on the top of the roof starts to melt as the surface warms up. However, when lower areas of your residential roofing system remain at the freezing point, that causes the moisture to refreeze. That creates a dam between the roof’s edge and the gutters. Any new rainfall or snow will accumulate behind the dam and can seep into openings in the ceiling, leading to leaks and damage. You can prevent this by adding more insulation inside your attic to maintain a more consistent roof temperature on the top and the bottom.

3. Condensation

Condensation develops when warm air inside the attic makes contact with the roof’s cold surface. Moisture forms right away, and because there’s no place for it to settle, it soaks into the surface and leads to issues like mold formation and mildew. Issues such as wet streaks and moderate damage to the underlayment of the residential roofing system are also possible if the problem persists. Improving the ventilation at the ridges, eaves, and gables can reduce the probability of condensation.
 

Are you seeking a reliable contractor to resolve your residential roofing problems this winter? Turn to the team at Dan Williams Roofing in Lorain, OH. Proudly serving clients throughout Northern Ohio since 2000, the family-owned company offers a variety of services, including storm damage roof repair, gutter installation, roof repairs, and replacements. Visit their website for information, or give them a call at (440) 288-8815 today to request a quote.