How Snow And Ice Cause Roof Damage
Winters here in Bettendorf are windy, snowy, and freezing. Cold weather, snow, and ice are always a hassle, but your roof usually takes the worst of it. With winter weather right around the corner, it is important to be aware of the effects that snow and ice can have on the roof of your Bettendorf home.
Roof Repair Company Bettendorf
Here are some of the most common roof problems the roof repair specialists at Challis Restoration Services have seen as a result of ice and snow during the winter months:
- Strain From Excess Weight: Your roof is under increased strain during the cold winter months because of the extra weight of the snow and ice that builds up on it. This excess weight can strain your roof supports and, especially for older roofs, can cause the roof to collapse. As snow builds up and begins to melt, the water naturally runs to the lowest part of your roof; but when the temperature falls below freezing it causes the water to freeze. Water expands when frozen so this can result in the formation of impressively large ice blocks. Then when it snows again, the weight of the snow only adds to the weight of the ice pressing down on your roof, which increases the stress and strain on your roof. This greatly increases the risk of roof collapse and other damage.
- Leaks Through Cracks: Cracks can appear on your roof as a result of snow and ice building up. Even the smallest fracture in your roof’s surface can allow water to leak into your home and cause serious problems. On top of unwanted water in your home, these cracks can grow and become considerably worse as the winter goes on. If there is water in cracks on your roof when the temperature drops below freezing, that water will freeze and cause the gap to expand in size and depth. Even what may seem like a minuscule gap can grow and displace shingles, creating more leaks and bigger problems.
- Ice Dams: Ice dams are brought on by melting snow and ice that runs off the roof but freezes once it reaches the gutters before it is able to flow down and away from your home. Ice dams will form once enough ice has built up that it freezes up to the edge of your roof. Ice dams can be catastrophic for your rain gutters and can even rip the roof’s flashing off. The ridge that forms from an ice dam prevents water from melting snow from draining properly off the roof. The water that backs up behind an ice dam can leak into your home and cause damage to your roofing material and major leaks into your home.
Keep in mind the potential risks and damages that your roof is exposed to this winter and be sure to call our restoration company when you need a roof repair company in Bettendorf. Stay warm this winter and rest assured that if your roof needs any help, Challis is here for you.