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What should you do when your roof starts leaking in winter? While there may be roof repairs that have to wait until temperatures are moderate, some roof leaks need to be remedied as soon as possible. One of the premier roofing companies in the area talks about the leading causes of winter roof leaks and what you can do to prevent them.
- Ice Dams. Ice dams occur when the snow melts and refreezes at the eaves, creating thick ridges of ice. These ridges can block the free flow of water and snow running off your roof. When water has nowhere to go, it can back up under the shingles and leak into your home. If left unchecked, ice dams can cause serious damage to your roofing system. To prevent the formation of ice dams, improve the level of ventilation in your attic and insulate the ceiling in living spaces.
- Clogged Gutters. If your gutters have not been maintained properly, they can become clogged with ice, in addition to the accumulation of leaves and debris in the fall. When this happens, your gutters will not be able to effectively drain snowmelt or rainwater away from your roof. Like ice dams, clogged gutters can cause water to back up underneath your shingles and cause your roof to start leaking. To delay the need for roof replacement, make sure you inspect and clean your gutters at least twice a year.
- Damaged Shingles. Cracked or missing shingles are also a common cause of roof leaks during the colder months. If your roof has been damaged in a storm by strong winds, hailstones, or wind-driven debris, it could buckle or crack your shingles and leave the deck exposed to elements. For this reason, it is crucial that you let a roofer perform an inspection after a storm event to make sure your shingles are secure.
When it comes to repairing storm-damaged roofs or installing steel roofs, Oberg Roofing & Remodeling Inc. is the company to trust. Our team delivers high-quality products and services to the residents of St. Cloud, MN and other nearby areas. Call us at (320) 233-2648 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.