Common Winter Roof Problems That Require Roof Repair in Traverse City, MI

One of the most common mistakes we see homeowners make is waiting until the springtime to resolve issues they’re having with their roof. Unfortunately, waiting until spring is almost always the wrong move, as winter weather will exacerbate any existing problems you’re having with your roof.

Here are a few of the most common winter roof problems that will require roof repair in Traverse City, MI:

• Ice dams: When ice dams form, they could be catastrophic to your roof system. Ice dams cause gutters to collapse, can cause significant damage to shingles and can quickly lead to leaks inside your home. Ice dams form when heat rises up from the inside of your home and collects in the attic, which causes it to warm the underside of the roof decking except at the eave areas. This means the snow begins to melt and run off, but then refreezes at the overhang, where there is no warm air pushing up from underneath. The result is damming water that backs up underneath the shingles and into your home. The best way to prevent this is to properly insulate and vent your attic, and to keep your gutters clear.
• Icicles: Many people thing icicles are harmless, but they can cause major damage to your gutters and roof system, as well as injure people if they fall. When icicles form, there is greater danger of a dam forming, as well. Properly insulated attics can help to prevent icicles, as can preventing air leakage from recessed lights, leaky ducts, plumbing and more. You should also knock down icicles when you see them forming, before they have a chance to fall on people at your home.
• Heavy snow loads: All roofs are designed to withstand snow loads to an extent. But it can get to a point when excessive loads could cause roofs to crack or sustain damage. Some common signs of over-stressed roofs include sagging ceiling tiles or boards, popping and creaking noises, sprinkler heads deflecting under suspended ceilings, sagging metal decking or plywood sheathing, bowing truss bottom chords, cracked or split wood members, severe leaks in the roof, cracks in masonry and walls, too much water piling up at non-drainage locations, or doors and windows that can no longer be opened.
• Condensation: If you’re dealing with icicles and/or ice dams, chances are good you’re probably also suffering from condensation issues. These are caused by the same factors that lead to ice buildup on the roof. Manage your ventilation and moisture within your attic to help combat this problem, and make sure that all dryers, heating equipment, fireplaces and other areas are properly vented.

These are just a few of the most common winter roof problems you might encounter. If you are experiencing any of these, contact us today for roof repair in Traverse City, MI. The team at Qualified Roofing is happy to answer any questions you have about our services and to schedule an appointment to come make your needed repairs.

Categorised in: Roof Repair