4 Common Roof Damages in Winter

Winter season tends to be extreme in the tri-state area. Between high winds, snow, ice and more, could your roof support it all? 

Although winter damages are more common than you would think, the condition of your roof matters the most.

Find below the 4 common roof damages to watch for during winter months.

1. Ice Dams and Icicles

Ice dams and icicles are ridge of ice that build up along the edge of your roof. They are common in Pennsylvania and many other northern states, where winters tend to be cold and snowy.

Assuming you have snow on your roof, when your house is heated and that heat enters the attic, the snow on your roof gets melted. Eventually, the water dripping down quickly re-freezes as it reaches the colder eaves, forming thick ice dams and icicles along your roof.

However, the water backing up behind them can leak into your home and cause a variety of damages.

Additionally, the weight added through their formation can tear your gutters from your home and aren’t safe for anyone walking below them as they can fall at any time.

2. Attic Condensation

Ice dams and icicles along the edge of your roof can also be an early sign of bad insulation in your attic.

As moisture tends to be a minor problem, allowing it to build up can open the door to bigger issues in the future, including mold and wood rotting.

Therefore, it’s important to ensure proper ventilation to prevent any issues and promote a healthy roof.

3. Heavy Snow on Your Roof

In general, a roof can support up to 20 pounds per square foot of snow. But depending on your roof’s condition, too much snow on your roof could cause it to collapse at any time, which is an emergency.

You should call a roofing professional ASAP, if your roof visibly looks like it’s sagging!

4. Winter Winds

Winters in Pennsylvania can be extremely windy. While a roof in good condition might be able to support high winds, one that hasn’t been replaced or even assessed in years could be at risk.

Winter winds can blow off old roof shingles, and can cause more damage when accompanied by hail storms which tend to be destructive. Ultimately, such an event could leave your roof exposed to other elements. For example, leaks.

Assuming your roof is in good condition, you shouldn’t be as concerned as someone who hasn’t had a new roof or had the condition of their roof assessed.

Yet, it’s never too late to call a professional to determine if your roof is at risk this winter. Pinnacle Exteriors has replaced roofs in all seasons including winter.

If your roof happens to be old, don’t hesitate to call us at (484) 350-6829 to schedule a Free assessment with one of our roofing experts.