What Dangers Does Your Roof Face in Winter?

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from the elements, and it helps keep your home warm and comfortable. But did you know that your roof is also at risk during winter?

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the dangers that your roof faces during winter, and we will give you some tips on how to protect it. Because the only thing between you and the cold winter sky is a good, solid roof!

Winter Dangers to Roofs

You want your roof working properly all year, but in the winter, especially! And winter is when your roof is most at risk for damage. Here are some of the biggest dangers to your roof in the winter:

Ice Dams

Ice dams can form on your roof and cause water to back up under the shingles and into your home. This can lead to damage to your roof, walls, ceilings, and even your furniture and appliances. Water damage can be especially problematic, leading to mold and even electrical issues in the home.

Snow Accumulation

Another danger that your roof faces in winter is snow accumulation. A heavy snow load can cause your roof to collapse or sag, causing serious damage to the roof and other parts of your home. Additionally, snow piling up and sitting can allow moisture to seep into your home if there are any cracks or gaps.

Storm Damage

A common winter problem is storm damage. High winds and heavy rains can damage your roof, causing leaks and other problems. If you have trees near your home, storms can knock branches onto the roof, causing damage, as well.

Pests

Pests are a common winter roof problem. When it’s cold and damp outside, critters will look for warm, dry places to hide out And that could be your roof! These pests can destroy insulation, chew up your electrical wiring, damage your roof shingles, and more. 

Tips for Protecting Your Roof in Winter

Don't worry, though, it isn't all doom and gloom in the winter! There are several things that you can do to protect your roof during winter. Here are some of the most important ones:

Inspect It

Have your roof inspected regularly and repair any problems immediately. Inspecting your roof is a job that should be left to professionals because they have the tools and knowledge to do it properly.

Insulate It

Make sure your roof is adequately insulated. This will help keep the heat in your home and will prevent ice dams from forming.

Protect It

Install snow guards or other roof protection systems. These systems can help protect your roof from heavy snow loads.

Keep Gutters Clean

Keep gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris so that water can properly drain off the roof.

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Keeping your gutters clean can help avoid pests. Another way to keep pests away from your roof is to trim back any trees or shrubs that would act as an easy bridge to your roof. 

Contact the Pros

If you follow these tips, your roof should be safe during winter. But if you do experience any damage, don't hesitate to call a professional roofing company for help. Roof repairs are not an amateur sport! Climbing on a roof can be dangerous at the best of times, but with winter conditions it's even riskier. If you have any concerns about your roof, always hire a trusted professional to sort it out so you don't risk harming yourself OR your roof!

Takeaways

There are certain risks your roof faces in the winter. Specifically, this includes ice dams, snow accumulation, storm damage, and pests. There are also several ways to protect your roof during the winter months, including keeping gutters clean and inspecting for signs of damage.

If you are ready to protect your home this winter, have your roof inspected to make sure you aren't at risk. And when you use a TrustDALE certified professional, you're always protected by Dale's trademark $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee. So start looking for a trusted roofing professional in your area today!