Winter can be a tough time for roofs. During this season there tend to be more storms, harsher conditions, and extreme temperature changes, making it not only difficult for roofs to endure the season, but also makes it more difficult to fix problems once they arise. Here are 3 common roofing issues that tend to arise.
Of all the seasons, winter tends to be the toughest on roofs. During this time an increase in storms, harsher weather conditions, and extreme temperature changes are often the norm. This makes it tough for roofs to not only endure the season, but to have repairs made once problems arise. Here are 3 common culprits for a broken roof in the winter.
Wind
Wind is a force that will reveal any weak or loose points on your roof, making it a greater threat the older your roof gets. It is rigorous towards your roof in any scenario, for even if your roof is in good shape, it can force water underneath the shingles, leading to a wide range of problems down the line if left unchecked.
Because of this, commercial buildings tend to fair better in wind, thanks to their flat and seamless surface not providing any spots for moisture to enter. However, they are usually not completely flat, leaving a significant chance for damage just like any other roof.
In the case of particularly strong winds, roof surfaces run the risk of cracking or damages. Damaged flashing creates a seam for water to get under the surface of the roofing material, elevating the risk factor for water damage and leaks.
Snow
Snow is undoubtedly beautiful when you look outside your window, but any homeowner can probably vouch for all the headaches that come with it. If not maintained, it will accumulate over time, eventually posing a danger for both your home and those who work/live within it.
The load-bearing capacity of roofs vary from type to type, but letting a certain amount of snow pile up on your roof is bound to affect its load-bearing capacity. Extremely heavy loads of snow on your roof can place a great deal of stress on the structure, compressing the insulation of the building, or even potentially damaging the roof deck. In dire situations, it can even lead to complete roof collapse.
Some vital signs of a roof exceeding its maximum capacity include loud popping sounds, sagging metal supports, warped wood, and any distortion with the structure overall. If you spot any of these signs, contact us immediately so we can safely deal with the problem.
Temperature Changes
Last but certainly not least is temperature fluctuations, which usually are more extreme during the winter. Temperature usually rises during the day, and then decreases during the night, and it is repeated rise and fall that can result in significant damage to a roof.
Over time, your roof’s ability to adapt to this fluctuation decreases, and the constant expansions and contractions of the structure will eventually shorten the lifespan of the roof. This shows itself in the form of joints cracking, seams tearing loose and separated flashings, all of which are expensive to repair. A worse case scenario would be a roof experiencing thermal shock, which can result in a roof being split wide open.
For more information about roofing services, and if your roof has had issues this winter, please feel free to reach out. We can be contacted over the phone at 978.327.5327 or through our online contact form.
