We rely on our roofs to protect us from many different kinds of weather, which are often difficult to predict. Storms and heavy snowfall can put our roofing under extra pressure. The good news is that if you keep up to date with your maintenance, then your roof should hold fast. Unfortunately, there may be times when, despite your best efforts, water can get into the house.
One of the trickiest times of the year is when there is heavy snowfall. The snow will put a lot of pressure on the roof structure, but it is when it melts that the problems can start. So, with that in mind, we have put together this short article on how to prevent roof leaks from melting snow in four easy steps.
Be Proactive
If you have a large amount of snow on your roof, and the forecast is predicting that more is on its way, then you should try to make sure that the snow is removed from the roof as soon as possible. This is because the weight can put pressure on the roof structure and potentially cause a lot of damage. Removing the snow as quickly as possible also helps to reduce the chances of ice dams forming on your roof, which are the number one source of leaks during the winter months.
Use appropriate tools, such as roof rakes or shovels. There are many different kinds of these tools on the market, so speak to a professional before going ahead with the purchase.
Know Your Roof—In and Out
It is vital that you make regular inspections of your roof to see if there are any broken or loose shingles. If any areas are damaged, they need to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. You will also need to make sure that the insulation and ventilation in the attic are working well and that there are no “weak” spots in the structure. Again, if you notice any problems, they should be addressed as soon as possible.
Regular Maintenance of Flashing and Guttering
No matter what time of year it is, you should always make sure that your flashing and guttering are in perfect working order and free of any debris such as leaves. Blocked gutters make it much easier for ice dams to form. This is the last thing you want because the meltwater will not be able to drain away from the house, and if it refreezes, there will only be one way for any other water to go. If the water works its way back onto the roof, it can get under the shingles and lead to leaks and potential roof collapse.
Speak to a Roofing Contractor
If you live in an area where you see a lot of snow, it makes sense to speak with a local roofing contractor about the different methods to keep the water from getting in the house. PVC rubber membranes under your shingles offer excellent protection against ice dam runoff.
In some cases, you may have to look at the insulation and ventilation systems of your house, as these can help to control the temperature of your roof and reduce the formation of ice dams. Either way, an experienced roofing contractor will be able to provide you with invaluable advice, which saves you any unwanted leaks.
