5 Common Roofing Problems in Winter

As a homeowner, you should take a proactive approach towards maintaining your roof and protecting it from damage. According to Home Advisor, replacing the roof of a one-story home can cost up to $8,400. While roof problems can occur anytime throughout the year, they are most common in winter. Here are five winter-related problems that can affect your roof.

  Icicles

Icicles are a common winter-related roofing problem experienced by millions of U.S. homeowners. When snow or ice melts on your roof, it will flow to the edge where it refreezes and forms icicles. If they fall, these sharp sticks of frozen ice can damage gutters, vehicles or anyone unlucky enough to be standing underneath.

  Ice Dams

A more serious winter roofing problem is an ice dam, which is characterized by the formation of frozen ice at the edge of a roof. If your home isn't properly insulated, heat will travel into your attic where it warms the roof. This heat will then melt snow or ice on your roof, turning into water that flows to the edge of your roof. Once here, the water refreezes and forms an ice dam, thus creating a blockage that traps water on your roof.

  Condensation

Condensation occurs wherever warm air meets cold air. Unfortunately, this makes attics an area of concern among homeowners during winter. The cold air on your roof meets the warm air in your attic to create condensation. When left unchecked, this moisture will lead to mold, rot, and decay in your attic. The excess moisture will seep into the walls, floors, insulation and elsewhere, causing extensive and costly damage. You can protect your attic from condensation by ensuring it's properly insulated and by using a ventilation system to increase airflow.

 Falling Tree Limbs

There's also the possibility of tree limbs falling onto your roof. The weight of snow or ice can stress overhanging tree limbs, causing them to snap and fall. If a heavy tree limb is directly over your roof, it may cause significant damage when it falls. Consider cutting down any potentially problematic tree limbs before winter.

 Heavy Snow

Even if it doesn't turn into ice, snow can weigh down your roof and increase the risk of a structural collapse. According to USA Today, most residential roofs are capable of holding 20 pounds per square foot of snow. When the weight of snow exceeds this limit, it may cause the attic to collapse. Keep an eye on your roof when it snows. If you see the snow accumulating to more than 18 inches, consider shoveling it off or hiring someone to shovel it for you.

These are just a few common winter-related roofing problems that you need to be aware of. By keeping your eye out for icicles, ice dams, condensation, tree limbs and heavy snow, you'll create a safer living environment for you and your family.