A winter storm’s high winds and heavy snow can wreak havoc on a roof. The force of the wind, the weight of the snow, and the pounding of the rain can cause leaks. The wind-driven rain can even break windows.
How extreme snow storms affect your roof depends on the age and condition of your home. Damage can range from mild exterior cosmetic issues to catastrophe if you don’t call a certified residential roofing contractor.
To learn more about the effects of snow storms on roofs and what you can do to prevent or rectify problems, read this article.
Snow Storm Can Cause Roof Leaks and Water Damage
Water damage occurs when water enters the roof area due to a crack or other flaw in the roofing materials. During extreme snow storms, snow collects on the roof and causes water to back up in the roof area, resulting in water damage and, eventually, roof leaks.
This type of water damage can also cause the formation of ice dams, which can create an even greater risk for water infiltration and damage to the home. To prevent further damage from extreme snow storms, it is important to inspect the roof of your home to ensure there are no areas that could potentially allow water to seep in.
Snow, Ice, and Heavy Branches Can Cause Holes in Your Roof
After a heavy snowfall or winter storm, snow can accumulate on the roof, adding extra weight and pressure. Heavy branches from nearby trees can also weigh down and break forces onto the roof, causing punctures and holes.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to ensure drains and gutters are kept clear and that heavy branches can be safely removed from nearby trees. Regular inspections should also be conducted to identify any potential early warning signs of damage, such as loose or missing shingles or visible holes. Taking quick action can help to reduce the cost of expensive repairs in the future.
Collapsed Roof Following an Extreme Snow Storm
Extreme snow storms can cause costly roof repairs for homeowners due to the additional weight caused by heavy snow accumulation on the roof. The amount of weight can be significant and have catastrophic results in the form of roof collapses or expensive repairs. It’s important to clear the snow off the roof after the storm passes in order to lessen the risk of costly roof repairs.
The risk of roof repair costs can be further reduced by having a professional roofing company inspect the roof after a storm in order to identify any small damage that may have occurred and replace any damaged shingles or flashing. Also, adding a waterproof membrane to the roof can help protect it from snow damage and costly repairs. While these steps can’t guarantee that your roof won’t need costly repairs after an extreme snowstorm, they can certainly help minimize the risk.
Knowing What Causes Snowstorms
Extreme snowstorms can cause a lot of damage to your roof. It is important to have your roof inspected for damage after a severe snow event before any costly repairs and replacements are necessary.
Being proactive and taking proper care of your roof can help you prevent damage from extreme snow storms. Call a professional today to help keep your home safe.
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