The weather can have a huge impact on your roof. Understanding the challenges each season brings can help protect and extend your roof's life. Let’s dive into how weather affects your roof and tips for year-round protection.
The Weather Effects: Rain, Snow, and Heat on Your Roof
Heavy Rain: Continuous rain can cause leaks, mold, and erosion, especially if your roof’s seals are compromised. Standing water may also damage shingles and encourage wood rot.
Snow and Freezing Weather: Accumulated snow can put a heavy load on your roof, potentially causing it to sag or collapse. Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the roof's edge, blocking proper drainage.
Summer Heat: High heat can cause shingles to warp or crack. The continual expansion and contraction of roofing materials under intense heat can also cause long-term damage.
How to Prepare Your Roof for Harsh Weather
Preparing your roof for extreme weather is crucial. Here are some steps to help you keep your roof in good condition throughout the year:
- Clear gutters: Keep your gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris to prevent water from backing up during rain or snowmelt.
- Examine your shingles: Inspect your shingles and replace any that are damaged or missing before extreme weather hits.
- Check for cracks: Seal any cracks or gaps you find to stop water from entering your roof during rainy or snowy weather.
- Ensure proper insulation: Good insulation not only boosts energy efficiency but also prevents ice dams from forming during the winter months.
Recommended Inspections and Repairs by Weathercraft
We recommend getting a professional roof inspection at least twice annually—once in spring and once in fall. Our experts will assess any weather-related damage and provide recommendations for repairs to help your roof withstand extreme weather.
