Signs of Roof Damage After a Harsh Winter
Winters in Minnesota are some of the longest, most harsh cold seasons on the planet. With that being said, it takes a toll on almost everything when the snow thaws, especially the exterior of your home.
Your roof will succumb first to the effects of unrelenting winter, and catching the warning signs of damage is the difference between minor roof repair and complete roof replacement. That’s why fall home maintenance is so important.
By taking care of your home before the weather turns, you can avoid many problems. Ice dam removal is equally as important, as ice dams can damage your roof and gutters if left alone. Let’s look at tell-tale signs of winter roof damage.
Water Damage or Mold in the Attic
Mold, mildew, and water damage say a lot when it comes to the overall deterioration of your roof over the winter. First, having that amount of moisture in your attic certainly spells insulation issues. You might be able to spot water damage in your attic without even going up there right away.
If you notice the formation of ice dams over the winter, there may already be water damage in your attic. That’s because poor attic insulation melts snow on top of your roof, which causes it to freeze at the eaves.
Crack or Warped Shingles
Upon inspection of your roof after the snow melts, you will want to inspect the state of your roof's shingles. Cracked, warped, or indented shingles are strong indicators that water has intruded through your layers of roofing throughout the winter. Water that sticks around long enough will oversaturate the shingles, causing shingles to crack and warp.
Additionally, if your roof has damaged shingles like these, it might be an indicator of damaged underlayment as well. Too much damage to your roof can sometimes indicate the need for a roof replacement.
If your roof is also leaking or your shingles are aging, consider calling a professional roofing company for a roof assessment. Most roofs last between 25-50 years, depending on the materials used to build the roof.
Clogged or Damaged Gutters
Gutters play a vital role in keeping your roof and the rest of your property from sustaining unnecessary water damage. However, the winter may weaken the gutter’s structure. Ice dams near the gutter's edge will undoubtedly strain your gutter system, making it sag and even break off at times.
In addition to damaged gutters, clogged gutters may be a warning of roof damage you might not see as water failed to drain properly for an extended time. In order to stop gutters from freezing, clean them out before winter hits and ensure your roof is properly insulated. You can also include gutter guards, which keep your gutters free of debris.
Damaged Siding
They may be two different parts of your exterior, but damaged siding may indicate roof damage as well. So, when the snow thaws, it’s best to take a look at your siding before stepping on your roof.
Ice Dams
As we mentioned, ice dam removal is essential and is a common roofing problem. Ice dams are large chunks of ice that form at the edge of your roof. They result from too much hot air leaking through the roof and melting the snow, which drips to the edge and refreezes around your roof’s edge and gutters.
Ice dams can cause broken gutters and shingle damage, so always hire a professional to remove large ice dams. Do not try to DIY ice dam removal unless you know the right ways to remove them. Never use a sharp object to chip into an ice dam, as you could damage your roof.
If You Suspect Roof Damage, It’s Time for an Inspection
There are two main times to get your roof inspected. You should try to get the roof inspected at least once a year during the spring or fall. This will help you get ahead of problems before they get worse and cause real damage.
The other time to get a roof inspection is when a major storm comes through. If you see signs of storm damage, then you need to call a professional roofing inspector to check it out and see what issues the storm may have caused.
During a roof inspection, a professional will come to your home and check all aspects of your roof and attic for problems. They will check the shingles, the granules, and the structural integrity of your roof.
Winter Roof Damage in MN? Contact Trinity Exteriors!
When you spot roofing damage caused by the harsh winter, call Trinity Exteriors for efficient solutions. We advise against DIY roof repairs, which can be dangerous, expensive, and time-consuming.
If you are looking for a roofing contractor, you can count on Trinity Exteriors to handle all of your roofing and home exterior problems. We will provide you with a written quote for all repairs and provide you with great workmanship.
Need emergency roofing repair? Call us right away after a storm so we can inspect and assess your roof. We can work with you and your insurance company to repair any storm damage that may have occurred.
Request a free estimate online or give us a call at 952-920-9520 today!