How to protect your roof this winter

Winter weather is tough on nearly everything, including your roof. Harsh winds, the stress of freeze-thaw cycles, and the weight of the snow can affect a roof’s structural integrity.  The damage can range from a leak to a roof collapse.

Buildings may be more susceptible to damage due to:

• Poor drainage, which allows water to accumulate near the foundation.
• Icicles at the roof’s edge and ice dams in roof valleys can cause additional load and water damage.
• The location of windbreaks can put the building within the “snow catch zone” and cause snow to accumulate on the roof.
• Overhanging tree branches.
• Additional equipment installed from rafters adds “dead load” to the roof.
• Insulation added to roofs prevents heat transfer that normally melts snow and reduces the snow load. Additional insulation allows snow to accumulate.
• Uneven drifting of snow.

Get ahead of possible problems by regularly inspecting, maintaining, and repairing your roof. Be aware of the following warning signs:

• Broken or cracked rafters, trusses, studs, or columns
• Twisted or deformed rafters or trusses
• Building leaning or out of plumb
• Loose fasteners
• Cracked drywall or plaster on ceilings
• Leaks from melting snow

When problems are first spotted, take corrective action immediately. Damage that appears minor can quickly worsen when exposed to harsh winter weather. Further, bad weather can make it difficult to make needed repairs by preventing safe access to the roof.

Roof inspections are serious business, and are often best conducted by a qualified roofing contractor who is well-established, licensed, and bonded.  Experts have the knowledge and training to do the checking and repairs, the proper equipment to do the job, and will assume liability for repairs and problems that may arise.

Removing snow from your roof is good preventive maintenance to reduce the risk of building failure. However, use caution. If snow is common in your area, have your roof inspected to determine the maximum depth of snow your roof system can safely withstand. When snow accumulations reach half the maximum, remove the snow from your roof to prevent overloading.
 
Keeping your roof in good shape protects the people, property, and activities taking place inside. It also helps protect the financial investments your roof represents.
 
Sources:

• emcins.com/losscontrol
• secura.net/my-policy/prevention-connection/farm-ag/farm-building-protection/roof-collapse