Most people outside of the Pacific Northwest assume it rains here all the time. They are thinking of only our winter weather when isn’t so rainy as much as it is just WET. WET and chilly. it’s like living in a cloud. If you’ve ever experienced living in a Chicago apartment during the winter, you know exactly what this feels like. Your face and neck get a rain sheen on them. Your shoes and clothes are constantly wet. And it is DARK! Clouds cover the sky and it’s dark long before you get home in your soggy shoes. But as wet as it gets, Washington gets cold and snowy, too. And all this wet weather can take a toll on your roof.
Our wet winter weather can cause damage to more than your shoes. It can cause severe damage to your roof, too. The cold weather causes three major types of roof damage:
- Wind Damage. Strong winds can loosen the shingles from the roofing substrate, create cracks in the substrate or remove the shingle entirely. Winds can also loosen the flashing. One of the most likely places to be damaged is the high roof ridge, which is ,ore exposed to the wind than other parts of the roof. One solution is to invest in high quality shingles with a warranty that includes high velocity wind damage. But, before you invest your time and money in reroofing, contact your roofing specialist for a complete inspection. Repairing minor issues before winter can prevent later problems. Investing in tree trimming and tree maintenance are beneficial to preventing damage, too.
- Snow And Ice.
- Snow – When snow accumulates on the roof, it’s weight can be stressful for you roof. Exceeding the roofing materials load bearing capacity results in creaking sounds, cracks in the roofing materials, and bowing of the roof. If the roofing substrate can’t handle the weight, the roof may leak or even collapse. Removing snow from the roof, or at least the lower 4’, after a storm will prevent damage.
- Ice – When the snow begins to melt and refreeze, ice can buildup on the roof edges creating an ice dam. This ice dam may block gutters and prevent water from draining away. Liquid water being held back by the ice dam may refreeze under shingles and in the roofing substrate. When it melts again, it may leak into the attic spaces and ultimately damage your ceiling, insulation, and your ceiling joists. Water damage may also result in mold and mildew growth..
- The Solution – The most effective long-term solution for ice dam problems is proper ventilation. Maintaining adequate air flow and keeping the temperature on the underside of the roof deck as close to the temperature of the exterior side of the roof will help prevent ice dams. Additionally, Installing additional attic insulation will prevent heat from the inside of the house from leaking into the attic spaces. Cleaning the gutters regularly before the snowstorm will aid water drainage. If an ice dam does occur during the winter, using Calcium Chloride or an ice melting product may be necessary. If you roof ice dam is inaccessible or too much to handle, have a professional Guardian roofing expert remove the ice for you.
- Hail. Like wind damage, you really can’t prevent hail damage. Hail causes damage to your roof on impact, denting your roofing shingles, flashing and ridge caps. The impacts from hail weaken the shingle, shortens the shingles lifespan and may lead to leaks under the shingle. But, once a hail storm has passed, have a Guardian roofing inspection performed to address any issues that may have occurred. An inspector will note any damaged shingles and replace them. An inspector will also look for further damage, which may require further repairs, like
- replacing part of the roof shingles amd/or roof decking
- re-roofing the entire home with impact resistant shingles
- Replacing dented flashing, gutters and attic vents
When cold weather arrives in the Pacific Northwest, it may bring more than a little drizzle. It may bring the snow and ice and their problems, too. No one can the elements, but you can take steps to minimize the impact they have on your roof. In addition to repairing roof damage immediately after it occurs, Guardian Roofing recommends that your roof be inspected at least once a year. Doing this can prolong the life of your roof, give you the peace of mind, and prevent damage to your home.
When your home is ready for a new roof, repairs, or maintenance, you need a reliable, dependable roof repair company. You count on you roofing contractor to keep your home safe and dry. Guardian Roofing is committed to providing top-quality service, professionalism and workmanship.
If you are looking for a roof repair contractor please call us today at 844-499-7822 or complete our online service request form.
