It may come as good news that The Old Farmer’s Almanac expects this winter’s temperatures to be above normal, with more rain and less snow across the United States, including Michigan.
Such a forecast suggests conditions may be ripe for more winter storms, which in turn triggers winter emergencies involving your roof. Four of these most common emergencies could signal the need for immediate and professional help with your roof.
Gusty winds
They can wreak havoc with your roof in a number of ways, especially by causing nearby tree branches to snap off and fall on your roof and blowing off shingles which could leave your roof exposed to the elements.
Heavy snow
Whether or not the Almanac forecast is correct, everyone expects snow during a Michigan winter. Roofs are built to withstand this force of nature, but every roof has its limits. Tall piles of snow can put stress on a roof, as can smaller but heavier accumulations when packed with ice.
Ice dams
As imposing as they sound, ice dams form when snow and ice melt on your roof and then, before draining away through the downspouts, refreeze into mounds of ice. Heavy or light, ice dams can be a corrosive force on your roof.
Water leaks
Melting snow and ice may cause you to breathe a sigh of relief – until you notice some of the water is leaking into your home. Even a small leak can cause thousands of dollars in interior damage, so it’s smart to call Grand Rapids’s most trusted roofer the minute you spot a leak.
Be proactive about winter storms
Obviously, no one can stop the ice and snow headed our way. But you can take proactive steps now to mitigate some of the effects winter storms will have on your roof:
- Trim tree branches near your roof if they are rubbing against your house. If you suspect you have a diseased tree on your property, have it removed.
- Remove branches, leaves and even berries from your roof. They increase the likelihood of ice dams.
- Clear your gutters of leaves and dirt to eliminate water backing up and leaking somewhere in your home.
- Ensure your attic is ventilated properly to reduce the formation of ice dams.
Call Moore and Sons Roofing to inspect your roof and, if necessary, fortify any weak spots. Like you, we have our eye on the winter forecast. We’ll always train our best eye on the integrity of your roof.