Many people love the winter. It’s true that the winter months in Kansas City can be beautiful. Envision tree lined-streets topped with the sparkle of fresh snow, and you have a picturesque winter wonderland worthy of a postcard. However, the winter season often creates the need for unplanned roof repair in Kansas City, and homeowners who neglect roofing prep and maintenance may quickly grow disenchanted with the beauty of the season.
Don’t let this be you! Check out these common winter roofing challenges. Then call Shamrock Roofing and Construction to get your roof prepped and ready for the first signs of winter!
#1. Heavy Wind and Hail
Like it or not, winter storms in the Midwest bring a lot of wind, sleet, and hail. These unfavorable weather elements can do major damage to your rooftop. Often, our clients call us for emergency roof repair in Kansas City when the winter wind rips and shreds shingles and gutters or hail leaves significant dings and dents. While this is one of the more obvious winter roofing challenges, a roof inspection before the season strikes gives you a chance to get ahead of the game, taking care of any minor issues before they have a chance to get worse.
#2. Ice Ice Baby
Ice is another common culprit during the winter season. Icicles, while pretty to look at, are a sign that further trouble lies ahead, as they’re typically associated with the formation of an ice dam. Ice dams are created when water freezes, melts, and refreezes, pushing up under the shingles and making your roof more vulnerable to moisture, water pooling, and eventual leaks. Luckily, experts on roofing in Kansas City can help curb this problem with adequate gutter maintenance during the fall months.
#3. Rogue Tree Limbs
Surrounding shrubs and tree branches can also damage your roof during the winter. One gusty storm and loose branches can strike your rooftop and puncture its protective membrane. This problem can be resolved by trimming back unruly branches before winter arrives. Experts recommend trimming overhanging branches back to a minimum of six to 10 feet from the roof’s edge.
#4. Attic Condensation
When warm air from your attic hits the surface of a frozen rooftop, condensation naturally occurs. While this may seem harmless on the surface, excess condensation can create moisture that promotes mold and mildew and ultimately destroys your drywall. Also, mold is exceptionally hazardous to many people, especially those with allergies or sensitivities. Roofing in Kansas City recommend getting quality ventilation measures in place to ensure the soundness of your home and the health of your family.
#5. Flashing Issues in Roofing
Your chimney is likely a key feature during the winter months, but the flashing surrounding your chimney can also present a winter roofing challenge. If not installed securely, a winter storm can bend the flashing, creating cracks that allow moisture to penetrate. Our team at Shamrock Roofing recommends a flashing inspection every six months to avoid this potential winter hazard.
Need Help Getting Ready for Winter? Call Shamrock Roofing!
Whether you’re in need of emergency roof repair or you want to take preventative measures, our experienced team at Shamrock Roofing and Construction is ready to help. Contact us day or night with all your winter roofing needs. We’ll help you prepare for whatever Mother Nature sends our way!