Canadian weather is extreme, going from high temperatures in the summer and dropping to below freezing in the winter. To say it can be unpredictable is an understatement. While our roofs work hard to keep us safe from the outside weather, there are many elements that can damage its shingles throughout the winter. Watch out for these 5 winter weather dangers to keep your home safe.
1. Snow
Falling snow is beautiful to look at when you’re cozy inside, but all that snow needs to land somewhere. Your roof is an ideal spot for snow to pile up. As the snow continues to fall, the weight adds up and it can actually become quite heavy for your roof to support. If left for long enough, the weight of the snow can damage your roof’s shingles, gutters and even cause structural damage. If your roof is sloped in such a way that snow does not easily fall off, you should call a roofer to remove it for you. You don’t want to risk further damage to your home.
2. Hail
Depending on where you live in Canada, hail can be a huge hazard. Alberta in particular experiences a fair amount of hail all year round. Every time a piece of hail hits your roof, it has the potential to damage it. Hail can dislodge the granules on shingles and even crack the asphalt layer underneath. To ensure your roof hasn’t been damaged by hail, have a roofing pro take a look at it and make the right recommendations for future maintenance.
3. Ice
Ice can cause a lot of damage to your roof, especially if an ice dam forms. Ice dams occur when the snow on your roof begins to melt and then refreezes along the edge of your roof. This creates a barricade, known as an ice dam, that prevents snow and water from draining off your roof. This can lead to leaks in your roof that can later make their way into your attic and insulation. If not treated, you could end up with mold or structural damage to your roof. Be sure to have a roofing company come to clear the snow off your roof and your gutters properly cleaned so ice dams don’t form.
4. Strong Winds
If your roof is already not in the best condition, strong winds can make it even worse. Strong winter winds can cause shingles to lift, warp and curl. If the wind is strong enough and your roof is quite damaged, shingles could actually blow right off your roof. This is why it’s important to have a roofer inspect your roof so that loose or damaged shingles can be located and repaired before they fly away.
5. Snowy Trees
Trees and their limbs are very susceptible to winter damage. Snow and ice can build up on branches and cause them to snap off. If you have big trees that hang over your roof, this can be a serious issue. Falling branches that land on your roof can damage your shingles and even puncture the roof itself. To avoid any tree-related issues, be sure to have them tended to yearly. Speak with a tree trimming company to figure out the best plan for your trees so you don’t have to worry about them falling on your home come winter.
Winter is beautiful but it is also dangerous. To be sure winter weather doesn’t damage your roof, you should get in touch with a roofing company to help you out. You can easily connect with and get quotes from roofers on HomeStars. Simply click on the banner below, enter your project details, and we’ll take care of the rest. That way you can stay cozy inside a home with a well-maintained roof all winter long.
