The winter months are in full swing, and Overland Park roofers are urging homeowners to take precautions. If you’re from the Midwest, you know that the area’s brutal wintery forecasts can cause significant damage if you’re not prepared. Your roof is highly susceptible to one of winter’s most common roofing phenomena: ice dams.
If not addressed, ice dams can ruin your gutters, damage shingles, and create the ultimate need for storm damage restoration in Overland Park. Luckily, there are ways you can keep your roof safe from these stressful winter foes.
Follow these tips from Shamrock Roofing and Construction to avoid ice buildup this winter.
So What’s an Ice Dam, Anyway?
Although ice dams look pretty, they can be dangerous. An ice dam forms when snow melts and then refreezes during frigid temperatures. When heat from your home hits the surface of the roof, the snow and ice begin to melt. If that snowmelt can’t drain, it refreezes, usually along the edges of the roof, resulting in ice dams. The bigger ice dams get, the more they keep melting snow from reaching the gutters. This causes water to back up under the flashing and shingles, leading to a whole litany of associated problems. So what can you do to prevent this?
#1. Check the Ventilation
Ventilation systems are designed to circulate air throughout your home. When properly installed and maintained, attic vents create the perfect temperature equilibrium for winter weather by circulating cold air underneath the eaves. In addition, other vents (such as kitchen, bathroom, and dryer vents) should have their exhaust hoses directed outward. This keeps hot air from hitting the rooftop and ultimately helps you avoid the woes of ice damming.
#2. Patch Any Holes
While it may seem obvious, holes in your rooftop (like an unsealed hatch) create opportunities for hot air to escape through the roof. It’s wise to invest in hatch caps to cover any openings during the winter months. You’ll help avoid the need for storm damage restoration in Overland Park with this simple step.
#3. Invest in Extra Insulation
Insulation is a great defender against ice dams. Insulated attic floors trap heat where it belongs and create the perfect temperature balance for the winter months. In addition, Overland Park roofers recommend extra insulation and flashing around your chimney space, as this nook is highly susceptible to ice damming.
#4. Remove Snow with a Roof Rake
Another quick trick for avoiding ice dams is to use a roof rake. A roof rake is a unique tool designed specifically for the safe removal of snow from your roof. Limiting the amount of snow that accumulates on your roof is a smart idea for many reasons, but it’s especially vital when it comes to preventing ice dams.
Need Assistance Winterizing Your Roof? Let Shamrock Roofing Be Your Guide!
Battling winter roofing hazards can feel overwhelming, but the experts at Shamrock Roofing and Construction are here to help. Start by scheduling a free roof inspection to determine the current condition of your roof. Then we’ll help you put together a plan to keep ice dams at bay this winter.
Our team of Overland Park roofers is ready to help with all your winter roofing needs. Contact us for more information or to schedule your free roof inspection!