Minnesota’s sub-zero winter temperatures can be rough and your home is the one place you should always feel warm and cozy. Extreme weather changes and conditions can bring unique challenges to any homeowner, especially their roof.
There are many common roofing problems, but luckily most of these problems can be avoided with the right preparation. As a homeowner, you should be aware of the complications that could arise during the cold months and how these complications can be a major threat to your roof’s integrity and the foundation of your home.
Condensation
As heat and warm air rise into your attic space and are combined with the cold air from your roof, it causes excess moisture in the air creating condensation. Condensation can take a toll on your roof if that moisture gets trapped and unfortunately, can fly under the radar before its noticed. The two most likely causes of condensation are improper ventilation and inadequate insulation.
If left unchecked, the long term effects of condensation can be very harmful and lead to the development of mold and mildew inside your home, eventually compromising your roof’s insulation and ventilation.
Best way to prevent condensation is to perform spot checks at least twice a year. Keep your eye out for any evidence of moisture, mold, or discolorations.
Ice Dams
It’s no surprise that snow on a rooftop can cause problems. Ice dams form when the heat inside your house rises to the attic causing the snow on your roof to melt. The melting snow refreezes at the edge of the roof resulting in water making its way under the shingles and freezes. This creates ice dams at the edge of your roof leading to water intrusion in your attic, ceilings, and walls.
Be advised, ice dams are one of the most dangerous roofing problems during the winter months and ice dam removal should be performed by a roofing professional.
Icicles
Icicles often bring that winter holiday feeling to life and even look cool, however, they can cause damage to your home. Large icicles are a danger to anything underneath them and become extremely heavy and sharp. This will put stress on your roof and gutter system that can lead to further damage to your roof’s overall structure. Clean the eaves on your roof and remove any excess snow to prevent icicles from forming. Icicle or ice dam removal should be handled by a roofing professional.
Signs Your Roof is Failing
Here are a few things you should be on the lookout for:
- Leakage in the attic after rain or ice build-up
- Excessive energy costs
- Mold or mildew growth on interior walls
- Blistering or peeling paint on interior walls
- Other exterior decay or dirty, dark spots on your roof
We definitely don’t recommend you getting on your roof to inspect. Take a look from the ground and use a pair of binoculars to get a closer look. If you’re really concerned, call one of our professionals 952-641-6086
