As any homeowner knows, after the first snowfall of the winter season there is always a flurry of roofing problems. Depending on how much snow or ice fell, you may have a roof with a few extra pounds per square inch of weight, or possibly a lot more. This means that any existing roofing problem could become that much worse in no time at all.

The Weight of Snow and Ice Makes Problems Worse Quickly

The weight of several feet of accumulated snow on your roof can also cause sagging in the middle. Over time, this will cause uneven wear on the surface. When too much weight in one area is concentrated in the same place, it results in more rapid aging or deterioration of these materials. The loss of protective granules leaves roofs and homes more vulnerable to penetration by moisture and other environmental elements.

The weight of snow and ice can also cause damage to the shingles and the underlying roof decking materials. The increased amount of pressure on these areas–due to both weight and additional cold air seeping in around loose or damaged shingles–can lead to warping, buckling, splitting, cracking, or standing up. Standing-up shingles are especially dangerous for everyone involved because they don’t shed water properly during storms. When this is coupled with ice dams caused by loss of shingle granules due to extreme temperature fluctuations, you have an even bigger problem on your hands.

An Ounce of Prevention…

Although it isn’t possible to prevent your roof from accumulating snow and ice during winter, there are several things you can do to reduce problems in these areas each year before the snow flies. If your shingles don’t have a granule coating, this is the time to add it. This is most effective if done before the first winter snowstorm hits. There are many different types of shingle-coating materials and installation methods available at home and garden centers. Do some research about costs and warranty information before committing to any one product or service.

If you need to replace or repair loose or missing shingles, reach out to us here at Stanley Exteriors. We will help make sure your roof is ready for whatever Mother Nature has to throw at it this year, and into the future.

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