Key Takeaways:
- The cold weather can cause many roof problems, such as sagging, damage to shingles, frozen gutters, and increased fire risk.
- There are several warning signs that a roof is damaged and needs repair, including cracked or missing shingles, leaks in the attic, high energy bills, and strange noises from the attic.
- To help prevent damage to your roof during winter, inspect your roof before winter and keep the gutters clean.
- Trim any trees or branches close to your home, remove snow and ice from your roof, and use a rake for roofs when removing snow.
As winter approaches, it’s essential to take some time to schedule a roof inspection. Winters in Oklahoma can be harsh, and any issues with your roof will only worsen as the weather gets cold. A roof inspection will help you identify potential problems & fix them before they become more significant.
How Does the Cold Weather Affect Your Roof?
The Weight of Snow and Ice Can Damage & Cause Your Roof to Collapse
The weight your roof can support will depend on the design and the materials used. Most roofs are designed to help a minimum of 20 pounds per square foot, but some can bear as much as 60 pounds per square foot.
When the temperature lowers, the water in your roof will freeze and expand. This can put much pressure on your top and cause it to collapse.
The Cold Weather Can Damage the Shingles
Most roofs have asphalt shingles; the asphalt becomes harder and more brittle when the temperature drops. This can cause your shingles to crack or break.
The Cold Weather Can Cause Your Gutters to Freeze
Gutters are designed to catch water and direct it away from your home. However, when they freeze, they can become clogged with ice and snow, which can cause water to back up and damage your roof.
The Cold Weather Can Make It Difficult to Repair Your Roof
If you have a damaged roof, it will be harder to repair in the winter because of the cold weather. Having your roof regularly inspected is essential to find and fix any problems before they worsen.
Warning Signs of a Damaged Roof?
1. Shingles That Are Cracked, Curled, Or Missing
One of the most obvious signs that a roof requires repair is if the shingles are cracked, curled, or missing. If any of the shingles on your roof are damaged, it’s important to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible, as they can lead to leaks and other damage.
2. Leaks In the Attic
Another sign that your roof may need repair is if you notice leaks in your attic after it rains. Suppose you see any water stains on the ceiling or walls of your attic. In that case, having your roof inspected as soon as possible is important, as this could be a severe problem.
3. Daylight Coming Through the Roof
If you notice daylight coming through your roof, this is a sure sign that some damage has occurred. Even if you don’t see any water stains or leaks, a professional must inspect your roof if you notice this issue.
4. Sagging Gutters
Gutters that are sagging or pulling away from the roof are a significant sign that your roof needs help. Various factors can cause this, but it’s usually an indication of some structural damage to your roof.
5. Granules in the Gutters
Granules in your gutters are another sign that must not be ignored. The granules on shingles help to protect them from UV rays and other elements, so if they’re washing away, it’s an indication that the shingles are no longer doing their job correctly.
6. High Energy Bills
Are you noticing that your energy bills have been gradually increasing even though you haven’t made any changes to your home? In that case, it could be due to poor insulation caused by a damaged roof. Heat or air conditioning escapes your home through the roof and can cause your energy bills to go up.
7. Strange Noises from The Attic
If you start hearing strange noises from your attic, it’s important to have your roof checked out as soon as possible, as this could be a sign of an animal getting into your home through a hole in the roof.
Related: Warning signs of a damaged roof!
Roof Maintenance in Winter
- Inspect your roof before the winter season begins. Look for any missing shingles or other signs of damage. If you find any damage, make sure to have it repaired before the winter weather hits.
- Keep your gutters clean & debris free. Clogged drains can cause water to back up and freeze, damaging your gutters and roof.
- Trim any trees or branches that are close to your roof. Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break & fall, damaging your roof.
- Remove any snow or ice from your roof as soon as possible. Snow and ice can weigh down your roof and cause it to collapse.
- Use a roof rake to remove snow from your roof safely. Roof rakes are explicitly designed for this purpose and will help you avoid damaging your shingles.
- Consider installing a metal roof. Metal roofs are much more durable than traditional asphalt shingles and can better withstand the elements.
- Hire a professional roofing contractor to perform regular maintenance on your roof. They will be able to identify potential problems & ensure that your roof is in good condition.
Related: Winter roof maintenance tips!
Standard Roofing is dedicated to providing our clients with quality roofing services and products in Mustang. We offer a wide range of services so that we can meet all your needs. Whether you need a new roof or just a simple inspection, we’re here to help. Our customer service and our commitment to excellence are what make us different.
