Keep snow and ice from hurting your roof!
Handling Problems Cause By Winter Weather
As we take a look at the first snow of 2014, we think about all the dangers winter weather can cause and how to prevent problem situations. Heavy snow accumulation and ice accumulation can bring the need for roofing repairs at the Lake of the Ozarks. With a couple months of winter left, there is always the possibility of more snow causing major damage. We urge you to clear your roofs and decks to prevent structural damage. Here are some winter roof protection tips from homesessive.com:
Before attempting to remove snow from your roof, think about the dangers; not only could you take a wrong step that sends you sliding off your icy roof, but the extra weight of a person could be just enough to make the roof collapse.
Warning Signs to Look For
Sagging is an obvious sign that your roof could be close to collapsing. Strong indicators are creaking, cracking or popping sounds; therefore, leave the building if you hear any of these signs. Other signs you should look for include severe roof leaks, bowed pipes attached at the ceilings, cracks in the walls or masonry, doors that pop when open or doors and windows that are hard to open. Another thing you don't want to overlook is your deck; they can be highly susceptible to collapse under the weight of the snow and ice.
Removing the Snow
If don't want to hire a roofing professional at the Lake of the Ozarks, the best option would be to use a roof rake. The rake has an extended handle allowing you to clear it from the ground rather than risk getting hurt by climbing up on the roof. Start from the edges working your way in. Use downward strokes and shave 2-3 inches off the bottom of the roof. You don't need to clean the entire roof off completely because this can cause damage to your singles or other covering. Metal rakes conduct electricity, so be careful if you are working near any power lines. Also, if you can't reach far enough, consider buying an extension pole and avoid using a ladder because the rungs can freeze causing you to slip. If you don't own a roof rake, you can purchase an average one for around $40.
Preventing Ice Damage
At Above & Beyond Roofing, we pride ourselves on being a locally owned and operated Roofing company at Lake of the Ozarks - We are 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 - 573-302-0354!
"If it needs a roof we can do it ...
1212 Spring Valley Rd
As we take a look at the first snow of 2014, we think about all the dangers winter weather can cause and how to prevent problem situations. Heavy snow accumulation and ice accumulation can bring the need for roofing repairs at the Lake of the Ozarks. With a couple months of winter left, there is always the possibility of more snow causing major damage. We urge you to clear your roofs and decks to prevent structural damage. Here are some winter roof protection tips from homesessive.com:
Snow Covered Roofs are Dangerous
Although snow covered buildings bring winter charm, they can also be very dangerous. Snow may seem light and fluffy, but when mixed with rain, snow and ice on your roof can become very heavy. In fact, just 2 feet of snow on an average sized roof can be the equivalent of 38,000 pounds or 19 tons! To make matters worse, snow melting can cause water seepage which can lead to a rotting roof, destroyed insulation, flooded attics, ruined gutters and damage to the interior of your home.
Before attempting to remove snow from your roof, think about the dangers; not only could you take a wrong step that sends you sliding off your icy roof, but the extra weight of a person could be just enough to make the roof collapse. Warning Signs to Look For
Sagging is an obvious sign that your roof could be close to collapsing. Strong indicators are creaking, cracking or popping sounds; therefore, leave the building if you hear any of these signs. Other signs you should look for include severe roof leaks, bowed pipes attached at the ceilings, cracks in the walls or masonry, doors that pop when open or doors and windows that are hard to open. Another thing you don't want to overlook is your deck; they can be highly susceptible to collapse under the weight of the snow and ice.
Removing the Snow
Preventing Ice Damage
- Remove Snow Before It Turns to Ice Heat escaping from the home can melt the snow causing ice dams to form. The water runs down the roof and refreezes causing the gutters to clog up. Since the gutters are now full, the excess melted snow is now forced under the shingles causing it to leak into the house.
- Add Insulation to Attic FloorsTo prevent heat from escaping your house and melting the snow on the roof, make sure your attic is well-insulated and your roof is well ventilated.
- Clean Your Gutters - Before winter weather hits, clean your gutters to remove leaves, twigs and other debris. This will help prevent the ice dams as well as rot and other water-based damage from occurring. Also make sure that your downspouts are clean at ground level during the winter months. A quick tip if your gutters are already frozen, put chloride ice melter in a pair of panty hose and hang it off the roof into the gutter. This will free a channel for the the melted snow to flow off the roof.
At Above & Beyond Roofing, we pride ourselves on being a locally owned and operated Roofing company at Lake of the Ozarks - We are 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 - 573-302-0354!
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