Snowfall and Your Roof: Can It Withstand the Extra Weight?
Whether you’ve lived in your house for years, or recently moved into a new one, you might be having some concerns about how your roof will hold the weight of snow. Family snow days can be a lot of fun, but snow can also lead to many complications. Here’s how you can identify and prevent problems with your roof this winter:
Some things to keep in mind
The roofing material — Asphalt and slate shingles can both support the weight of snow well, however asphalt shingles are the more affordable option and easier to replace.
The structural design — It’s no question that a steep and smooth roof will generally shed snow much easier than a flat or slightly pitched roof.
The weight of the snow — Wet snow can be almost three times heavier than fluffy snow, which means it could be adding dozens of pounds to your roof.
Signs of a weak roof
You should always check the attic for bends and cracks as well as note how your roof looks from the street. If you notice roof damage, it doesn’t always mean it’s from the weight of snow however. Roof damage could come from a variety of sources like insects, age, or rodents. It’s always good to check with roofing professionals before coming to any conclusions.
Periodic snow removal
While your home is built to specific codes and should be able to withstand almost any snow load, some homeowners choose to remove some snow before it piles up. Before you do this, be aware of these important points.
Don’t try to remove all the snow — You might damage the roofing material underneath, which would leave the roof vulnerable to leaks.
Pay attention — As you’re pulling snow off the roof, you’ll want to make sure you don’t unintentionally block a path or hit a bystander.
MAK Construction Corp offers a complete range of personalized home improvement services designed to make life easier and more enjoyable for your entire family. No matter what you’re longing for, you can count on us to listen carefully to your needs and follow through with inspired designs and exacting craftsmanship that add real value to your residence. Contact us today so that we can help turn your house into your dream home!