A snowy forecast in Des Moines comes as no surprise to residents of the area. The Midwest receives more inches of snow each year than many other parts of the country. That said, while snow is inevitable and unavoidable, it can be quite destructive if allowed to accumulate.
The pros at Shamrock Roofing and Construction know the kind of damage that can be wrought by a winter snowstorm. Here’s our take on why snow removal is so important, along with some steps you can take to mitigate the problem throughout the winter season.
Why Should I Care About Snow Removal?
Snow and ice can be harmful to the overall health and lifespan of your rooftop. While most modern roofs are designed to hold up in winter weather, even the most well-planned design can fall through when a major storm hits.
Snow can be dangerous for multiple reasons. Sometimes snow gets packed hard, freezing over and creating sharp, menacing ice-type configurations. When this happens, any vulnerable points in your roof (like minor holes or cracks) have the potential to get bigger because of freeze/thaw cycles (water molecules expand when they freeze). Once enlarged, the holes create problems for homeowners. These holes allow water infiltration, which, in turn, leads to mold and mildew growth, not to mention leaks in the ceiling below! That’s when homeowners panic and put in a call for roof repair in Des Moines.
In addition to all this, snow left to accumulate on your rooftop presents the risk of avalanche activity and the unwanted possibility of physical injury to family and friends.
Tips for Managing Snow Accumulation
We are nearing the end of winter, but there’s no way to predict what Mother Nature still has in store for the Des Moines region. There are several meaningful ways to prepare for the worst that winter throws at you. First, make sure you’re aware of the current condition of your roof. Take care of any apparent damage, like large holes or gaps, mismatched gutter guards, or misshapen shingles, before the next snow. Hire a team of experts on roofing in Des Moines to provide a thorough roof inspection and handle any necessary repairs. You’ll be glad you took this extra step later when that last snow shows up.
In addition, there are some DIY prep projects you can complete to assist with snow management. Cleaning out your gutters will help your water flow situation and allow melting snow to drain off the roof, through the downspouts, and away from your foundation. Take time to clear debris (like leaves, sticks, or animal nests) off the roof, and make sure the gutters are properly aligned. You might also consider investing in some extra tools like snow guards, a roof rake, or ice melt that will make snow removal and management safer and easier than in the past. These simple investments may just help you avoid roof repair in Des Moines this winter!
Need Help Maintaining Your Roof this Winter? Give Shamrock a Call!
If you have questions about the importance of keeping snow off the roof this winter, give Shamrock Roofing and Construction a call. We’re well-versed in what it takes to preserve the roofing on Des Moines homes, and we can put your worries to rest. Contact us for more information on all our residential roofing services. We’re just a phone call away!