A snowy landscape can make a nice picture, but there’s no denying the potential risks for damage that ice can bring, especially to your roof and gutters. In this article, Ken Morton Roofing & Siding, a GAF Master Elite Roofer, discusses how ice can cause damage to your roof and gutters.
Icicles could only mean trouble for your home. They’re a sign of an ice dam, which is a buildup of ice on the eaves of your roof. When left ignored, this could result in damage to your gutters and leak under your shingles and into your home.
To prevent roof damage from ice dams, roofing contractors normally suggest melting the ice or removing the snow. For a more permanent fix, you should address temperature issues in your roof. Make sure that heat isn’t leaking out; insulate your attic. Typically, ice dams are caused by uneven heat on the roofing. Snow melts on the warmer parts of the roof. Then, it flows down and refreezes at the eaves, causing icicles to form.
Excessive Weight on Gutters and Roofing
Snow can overload your roof and gutters. And with all the extra weight that they have to bear, your roof and gutters could crack, collapse, or separate from your home. To avoid any of these scenarios, you should have your roof inspected and prepped for winter. Look out for leaks and other structural problems that may warn you of certain risks.
Downspout Blockage
Downspouts that are blocked by ice can cause water to back up and damage your gutter system. To keep gutters and downspouts from freezing, you might want to consider installing a heated gutter system. The Helmet Heat® Ice Reduction System particularly does a great job of melting ice in gutters and downspouts. By allowing water to flow efficiently, it reduces the risk of ice damage.
Ken Morton Roofing & Siding has been in the industry for decades. Our services include roof installation and gutter replacement. If siding repair no longer cuts it for you, we can also assist you with siding installation. Call us at (856) 582-8800 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve homeowners in Woodstown, NJ.