Winter storms bring a mix of snow, ice, and strong winds that can put a significant amount of stress on your roof. Without proper maintenance, these harsh winter conditions can lead to costly roof damage, leaks, and other issues that may threaten the integrity of your home. By following these essential roof maintenance tips, you can help protect your home through the toughest winter storms and reduce the risk of damage.
1. Clear Snow and Ice Safely to Reduce Weight and Prevent Leaks
When heavy snow and ice accumulate on your roof, the added weight can strain your roof structure and cause sagging or leaks. Here’s how to safely manage snow and ice buildup:
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Remove Excess Snow: Use a roof rake with an extendable handle to gently pull snow off the roof without climbing onto it. Avoid using a shovel or any tools that could damage shingles.
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Melt Ice Buildup Carefully: Ice dams (large blocks of ice along the roof edge) can trap water behind them, leading to leaks under the shingles. Use calcium chloride to safely melt ice—avoid rock salt, as it can damage shingles. Place the ice melt product in a sock or mesh bag and position it vertically along the ice dam to create a channel for water to escape.
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Don’t Attempt DIY Solutions on Steep Roofs: If you’re dealing with significant snow or ice on a steep or difficult-to-reach area, it’s safest to contact a professional to prevent injury or roof damage.
Keeping snow and ice under control is one of the best ways to prevent winter-related roof damage, but always make safety a priority.
2. Keep Gutters Clear in Winter to Prevent Ice Dams
Clogged gutters can be a major contributor to ice dams, which form when warm air from the attic causes snow on the roof to melt and then refreeze along the edges. Here are tips to keep gutters functional in winter:
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Clear Leaves and Debris Regularly: Even in winter, leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in gutters, causing blockages. Clearing them allows melting snow and ice to flow off the roof and prevents water buildup.
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Install Gutter Guards: Gutter guards can help prevent debris buildup in the first place, making it easier for water to flow freely through the gutters.
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Check for Proper Drainage: Ensure that your downspouts direct water at least several feet away from the foundation. If water isn’t draining properly, it can create icy patches near the roofline, increasing the likelihood of ice dams.
By maintaining clear and functional gutters, you help reduce the chance of ice dams forming and keep water moving away from your roof.
3. Know When to Call a Professional for Roof Damage After a Winter Storm
While regular maintenance can help reduce roof damage, some situations call for professional attention. After a major winter storm, inspect your roof and consider calling a professional if you notice any of the following:
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Visible Damage: If you see missing shingles, damaged flashing, or cracks in the roof surface, it’s best to have a professional evaluate the situation. These issues may allow water to seep into the roof, leading to leaks and water damage.
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Signs of Ice Dam Formation: If you have persistent ice dams despite clearing gutters and improving insulation, a professional can recommend solutions like installing heat cables or improving attic ventilation.
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Interior Signs of Leaks: Check for water stains, damp insulation, or mold in your attic. These are often early signs of roof leaks that can be addressed before they lead to further damage.
Winter storms can leave hidden damage that might not be immediately apparent, so if in doubt, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind and prevent future issues.
Schedule Winter Maintenance and Emergency Repairs with Riddle Brothers Roofing
Winter storms can be tough on roofs, but with the right maintenance and timely repairs, you can protect your home from the harshest weather. Whether you need help with snow and ice removal, gutter maintenance, or roof repairs, Riddle Brothers Roofing is here to provide reliable, professional support.
Contact us today for ongoing winter maintenance or emergency repairs and keep your home safe and secure through the winter storm season.
Riddle Brothers Roofing & Construction is an award-winning roofing company that services the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Our experienced roofers, with both commercial and residential roofs, have experience with claims and can assist your insurance company. We provide only the best quality roofing material in the industry to ensure you get a quality roof that will last for many years to come. If you want to learn more about Riddle Brothers Roofing & Construction, call (214) 884-8346 or visit our website for a free quote.