Prevent Your Roof from Collapsing this Winter

The first snow of the Season has made its way to the Lake! Although that fluffly white blanket seems like a beautiful gift of nature, the snow can cause major problems for your roof. To avoid a roof collapse and costly roof repairs at the Lake of the Ozarks, take the time to remove the snow now.  Here's a breakdown of Winter roof protection from HomeSessive.com:

Snow-Covered Roof Dangers

Snow may seem light, but it actually holds a lot of weight.  Think about when you make a snow ball or snowman, that packed snow can be quite heavy.  The weight increases when rain, ice and sleet are added to the snow mixture.  On an average sized roof, just two feet of snow can be the equivalent of 38,000 lbs or 19 tons!  That massive amount of weight puts stress on your roof, weakening its structure.  In addition to the weight, the melting of the snow can cause water seepage, leading to rot, destruction of insulation, attic flooding, ruined gutters and even damage to your home's interior.

Is Your Roof About to Collapse? 

Sagging is the most obvious sign that your Lake of the Ozarks roof is about to collapse.  If you hear any creaking, cracking, or popping sounds, you should leave your home immediately because these are all strong indicators your roof is going to soon collapse.  Other warning signs you should look for include:

• Severe roof leaks
• Bowed pipes attached to the ceilings 
• Cracks in the walls or masonry
• Doors that pop when open
• Doors or windows that are difficult to open

In addition to your roof, beware of snow damage to your decks and docks.  These areas of your home are also highly susceptible to collapse from the added weight of snow and ice during the Winter. 

Removing Snow and Ice From Your Roof

Before attempting to remove the snow and ice from your roof, think twice!  Jumping on your roof with a shovel in hand is not a good idea.  Not only can the extra weight of a person lead to increased chances of a roof collapse, but one wrong step can send you sliding to the ground.  Hiring a professional is always a great option, but if you're going to attempt to remove the ice yourself, you'll want to purchase a roof rake.  This type of rake has an extended handle, allowing you to stay safely on the ground while removing the snow from your roof.  Follow these steps to use your roof rake effectively:

1. Start from the edge and work your way into the roof. 
2. Use downward strokes. 
3. Try to scrape the snow along the bottom of the roof, shaving 2 or 3 inches off. 
4. You don't need to scrape the roof entirely clean, as this can risk damage to your shingles.

Be careful around powerlines because the metal rakes conduct electricity if they come into contact with the lines.  You'll also want to avoid using a ladder as the rungs can freeze and cause you to slip.  You can buy extension poles or longer rakes instead of risking the use of a ladder in the freezing temperatures.

Preventing Ice Damage 

One major problem the snow can cause is a roof collapse, but Winter weather can also cause other problems.  Here are a few extra tips to help you prevent ice damage this season:

• Get Snow Off the Roof - When the snow starts to melt, due to heat escaping your home, ice dams can form.  The metled water runs down the roof, refreezes and clogs up your gutters.  Since the gutters are now blocked, excess water from the snow continuing to melt is forced under the shingles and can leak into the house. 
• Add Insulation to Attic Floors - To prevent heat from escaping your home and causing the ice dams mentioned above, make sure your attic is properly insulated and your roof is well ventilated.  
• Clean Your Gutters Twice a Year - Ice dams are caused by blocked gutters and downspouts. Therefore, its important that you clean your gutters regularly.  Rot and other water-based damage to your home are also issues that can arise from clogged gutters.  You should do this in the Fall before the snow falls (if you haven't already done this, do it now before it snows again) and then again in the Spring to remove all the debris from the Winter weather.  During the Winter months, be sure the downspouts are cleared at ground level from snow and ice.  

By taking these tips into consideration and keeping your roof free of snow and ice,  you can sleep easy knowing that your roof isn't going to collapse over your head.  Trying to prevent damages that Winter weather can cause will save you money on costly repairs down the road.  If you do notice any damage to your roof though, contact the best roofing company at the Lake of the Ozarks.  Above & Beyond Roofing is here to help with all your roof repair needs!  

At Above & Beyond Roofing, we pride ourselves on being locally owned and operated, being open 7- days a week, and we turn the average roofing job in one day!  Contact Ben or Melissa for a free estimate on your next project at 573-302-0354!

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"If it needs a roof we can do it ...
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1212 Spring Valley Rd
Osage Beach, MO 65065
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