Winter and your roof…NOT a match made in heaven. However, winter’s elements are exactly what your roof is there for, and a well-maintained roof can stand up to just about anything Charlotte’s winters have to offer.
That said, there are still some things to look out for during wintertime. Here are three common winter roofing problems that require the help of a professional roofer.
Attic Condensation
When a cold surface interacts with warm air, condensation can occur. That’s especially true for your attic space, which, if improperly ventilated and insulated, may be letting too much cold air in from your roof. Not only does this issue cause your HVAC system to work overtime, while you waste heat, it can actually cause moisture to build up inside your home. Condensation may eventually lead to mold and even small leaks that may cause everything from wood buckling to drywall problems.
Icicles and Ice Dams
Although these issues are more prevalent in colder parts of the country, our fickle weather patterns may cause them to happen once or twice a year. Ice dams and icicles occur when ice freezes, then melts, then freezes again in rapid succession. They can be hazardous to people walking below your roof, but they’re also extremely hard on your gutter system. In fact, heavy enough ice buildup can cause your gutters to bend or even break! The culprit? Gutters that haven’t been cleaned properly and then clog the first time winter’s heavy freezing rains hit.
Strong Winds
Winter storms – and summer storms for that matter – can bring with them heavy winds. In Charlotte, homes that have a lot of tree canopy can see serious damage to their roofs from wind. Shingles can be blown loose, flashing pulled apart, and aging gutters actually ripped from the house itself. Wind also puts your roof in danger of being punctured by a falling tree branch; it happens here more than you’d think, especially during ice storms! A large puncture by a tree or branch can cause catastrophic roof damage that has to be dealt with immediately.
Have winter roofing issues? Since 1939 H&S Roofing and Gutter Company has been Charlotte’s choice for affordable roof and gutter repair, and we’re open all year ‘round. Rain or shine, call us at 704.272.2533 for an on-site visit at your home or office.