Five Roofing Problems that Are Common During Winter: Insights from a Roof Repair Company in Warrenville, Illinois

Winter can be a difficult time of year for your roof, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures creating problems in some areas throughout the season. So, how can you ensure that your home’s roof does not take on extensive damage this winter? It all starts with being aware of some of the most common roofing problems that typically occur during winter.

To help give you an idea of what to expect, this roof repair company in Warrenville, Illinois is going to review five common roofing problems below.

1. Ice Dams

As the temperature drops, you might find that water seeps into your house through the walls or roof. Ice dams are a common cause of this problem because they create small pockets of warmth inside the roofline. If these pockets get big enough, they will be filled with melted snow and refreeze as it drips down the roof line.

The ice dam that forms at the peak of the roofline can hold melting snow in place even after the sun melts most of it on the lower parts of your roof. They can also create heaving, which means slabs of snow and ice push against one another until they give way and bulge out onto your roof’s surface.

2. Flashing Leaks

Winter storms and lower temperatures mean more exposed surfaces. To help your roof last until spring, your roof repair company in Warrenville, Illinois will recommend checking for flashing leaks. Flashings are a sealant between the roof and chimney or house foundation to prevent leaks or water from seeping in. In winter, roofs experience much lower temperatures than usual, so moisture can get trapped beneath the flashing, causing a leak if not fixed in time.

3. Freezing Gutters

Gutters can freeze during the winter, and in some cases, they can burst. If not iced over, water can pool in these areas and lead to leaking or interior flooding. Pipes may also freeze and burst, leading to other problems for your home in Warrenville. To avoid issues, your roof repair company in Warrenville, Illinois will advise you to make sure your gutters are properly cleaned and drained during the fall.

4. Condensation

The cold weather creates a big challenge for your roof because of the lack of warmth and moisture. High humidity from heating systems can also cause condensation on your shingles. All that humidity and water can mean higher rates of leaks. 

These condensation problems can take several forms. Sometimes you will see black spots on your shingles. These are a form of algae, which have grown over water stains that have leaked into your attic. In other cases, you might just have wet areas that could be leaking in a place you can’t even see.

It is a good idea to check all your attic vents and ensure they are not blocked with snow or ice so that moisture does not get trapped inside. You should also seal any leaks around these vents with silicone caulk.

5. Hail Damage

Hail is a major problem for Warrenville homeowners when the weather turns cold. Most people know that hail can cause damage to houses, but there are some misconceptions about just how far-reaching the effects of hail can be. It does not just damage your roof — it can also damage the walls, shingles, gutters, and more.

Final Thoughts

Winter can be a difficult time for roofs. Snow and ice accumulation, frozen shingles, and melted snow running down into gutters are just some of the common roofing problems that occur in winter months in colder climates and can wreak havoc on your roof. Thankfully, a roof repair contractor in Warrenville, Illinois can inspect your roof for any signs of damage and perform any necessary repairs to reduce your risk of wintertime roofing problems.

Looking for a Roof Repair Company in Warrenville, Illinois?

Have you noticed any issues with your roof that you would like to have repaired before winter? If so, and if you’re looking for the top-rated roof repair company in Warrenville, Illinois, look no further than the experts at Prusak Roofing Inc. Contact us today at (708) 422-2624 to request a free quote.