How Does Snow Affect Your Roof?
Heavy snowfall can damage your roof from weight buildup and the secondary effects of snowmelt. After even just a few inches of snowfall, your roof’s integrity can become compromised. The resulting damage impacts safety and energy efficiency and can lead to hefty repair bills.
How Does Ice Affect Your Roof?
Roofing concerns don’t relent after temperatures increase. Snowmelt can pool on roofs and gutters, and if the weather becomes suddenly colder, the melt freezes and attacks your roof’s weak points. Cracks in shingling and roofs increase and new fissures form; ice dams collect in gutters and filtration becomes blocked.
How To Prevent Ice Dams in Wisconsin
Ice dams are some of the most damaging factors when it comes to roofing. They tear off gutters and degrade shingles whenever the roof’s surface temperature fluctuates between thaw and freeze. Luckily, ice dams can be prevented with some simple, routine maintenance:
- Shovel or use a roof rake to remove snowfall from your roof
- Install heating wires
- Make sure your home is properly insulated - keep surface temperatures reasonably equal between the roof, eaves, and gutters.
Metal Roofs in the Winter
Metal roofs are among the strongest roofs available. They’re great at insulation and save you money on heating costs. They’re easier to maintain compared to shingled roofs and can withstand heavy snow accumulation and damaging hail.
However, due to their insulating properties, metal roofs tend to hold more heat. Snow melts faster, potentially leading to snow and ice dams. Keeping metal roofs clear of snow and ice is paramount to achieving the best results.
Heating Wires to Prevent Winter Roof Damage
If your roof is prone to snow and ice accumulation, avoid buildup by installing heating wires to your roof. When professionally installed, heating wires melt ice dams and help meltwater flow to gutters and drains rather than destructively pooling on your roof. Before winter arrives in Wisconsin, apply heating wires to your roof. Installation is quick, often taking less than one day to install.
Contact the roofing contractors at Overhead to Winterize your roof!