How Snow and Ice Impact your roof

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Snow and ice are always seen as inconvenient. But it can be more than problematic; it can be dangerous. Snow and ice can cause significant damage to roofs, ranging from minor repairs to major structural failures.

Warming temperatures thaw the top of your roof while cold temps build up snow and ice on the run-off areas. This causes an immense amount of pressure that may lead to:

Gutters Cracking Due to Excess Weight

Snow and ice accumulation can cause additional weight on your gutters. Gutters are already burdened by large volumes of water, especially in the spring when snow begins to melt. If there is too much weight on your gutters, it can cause cracks and leaks.

Rooftop Ice Lead to Water Leaks

Even if you use heat tape or other preventative measures to keep ice dams at bay, eventually, they will form due to more snowfall than melting. Ice dams create pools of water that leak into insulation and ceilings below; these leaks may be silent until severe damage has occurred.

Rafters Bowing Down Under Heavy Loads

Rafters are designed to hold the weight of your roof, not the weight of snow and ice. Snow and ice can cause significant damage to rafters if they bow under excess weight, which could also lead to sagging ceilings or leaks in the attic.

Blocked Attic Vents Lead

Snow and ice can block your attic vents. This will cause your attic to overheat, which may lead to warped floors or ceilings, as well as the growth of mold or other allergens throughout your home.

A Structural Collapse is a Major Emergency

Structural collapses are very dangerous. They often happen suddenly without warning and require immediate attention from a professional roofing contractor. However, a structural failure should never be ignored because doing so could result in severe injury or even death!
While snow and ice accumulation isn't guaranteed damage to your roof, it does mean added weight you didn't account for during installation. If not managed correctly, this added weight may lead to significant issues, leaks, and structural damage.

Here are a few tips to help keep you safe this winter:
Have your roof inspected for any ice or snow damage before extreme cold sets in. Hernandez Roofing and Construction will be able to identify wear and tear so they can recommend repairs as needed. 

Keep gutters clear of debris that could damage them, such as ice and snow. Also, keep an eye on your gutters for any cracks or leaks that can indicate wear and tear. If your gutters are draining poorly, it may be time to replace them entirely—the new gutter system should address the issues you're having now so they won't happen again next year.

Give us a call today and let us help you stay safe this winter. 

Hernandez Roofing and Construction is your local, top-rated roofing contractor serving the North Georgia and Tennessee Valley. 706-847-0729