The winter months are en route, and homeowners are actively getting the house prepped for the sporadic and unpredictable winter storms well-known to the KC metro region. Most homeowners understand the need to take precautions ahead of time. Homes in this area are naturally prone to experiencing one of winter’s most unwanted gifts: ice dams.
If you’re not familiar with the term, an ice dam is a winter hazard that can cause leaks and permanent damage to your roof. Ice dams form when water from melting snow is trapped and refreezes. This backs ice up under the flashing and shingles. If this cycle continues, the ice may eventually loosen your roofing materials up enough that melting snow and ice then make their way into your home, causing an unexpected need for roof repair in Kansas City.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent and remove ice dams quickly. Here’s the scoop from local roofer Overland park, KS Shamrock Roofing and Construction.:
Install Heated Cables
Heated cables are a lifesaver when it comes to winter roof prep. These handy accessories attach along the roof’s edge. They then work to stabilize your roof’s temperature, allowing you to avoid the rapid freeze/thaw fluctuations that result in ice accumulation. Keeping roof edges warm in the winter is a good start toward preventing ice dams.
Check the Vents
As we’ve already seen, unstable temps can contribute to ice accumulation. Ventilation helps address this problem by circulating cold air underneath the roof’s surface so that excessive heat is not melting snow and ice faster than your roof can handle. In addition, ensuring the vents in your kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom are directing exhaust outward is helpful. Ventilation can be tricky to get right, so consider hiring an expert on roofing in Kansas City to check yours and give you a “thumbs up” before winter arrives.
Add Extra Insulation
You might be sensing a trend here, but adding insulation to your attic is another way to curb temperature imbalance. The amount of insulation you’ll need depends on many factors, but the goal here is to keep the air heated by your furnace down in the living spaces of your home. If it escapes into the attic, it’ll warm up the roof, causing snow Baixakis and ice to melt quickly. Once again, consulting a professional on roofer in Overland park, KS is your best bet.
Keep Your Roof Clear of Snow
While a little more tedious, regularly sweeping snow off your rooftop is a great preventive measure. Many hardware stores sell a special roof rake made for this purpose. With a telescoping handle, you should be able to clear most of the snow and other debris safely from the ground without harming your shingles.
Make sure you use common sense when clearing your roof. Never get up on a ladder or on the roof when snow and ice are present. The risks are too great. Even the professionals stay on the ground in these situations.
Take Care of the Chimney
You’ll likely use your chimney more during the winter months than at any other time of the year. However, the valley between the chimney and the frame of your house is at high risk for ice accumulation. You can easily reduce this risk by installing a flashing system (preferably steel) and sealing up any cracks or dents before winter arrives.
Need Help with Winter Prep? Call Shamrock Roofing and Construction
There are many things to consider as you get your roof ready for the winter. Whether you need winter roof repair in Kansas City or you just need a few tips and tricks for DIY roof prep, Shamrock Roofing is here to help. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about all our residential roofing services!