How Snow and Ice Affect Your Roof in Regina

We've seen a lot of snow in Saskatchewan this winter. With warmer-than-average temperatures on the way, that snow will start to melt and create ice. Snow and ice are often seen as an inconvenience, but they can be more than that. Snow and ice can be dangerous, particularly to your roof. Snow and ice can cause major damage to your roof, from minor roof repairs to total structural failure. So, how do snow and ice affect your roof in Saskatchewan? The experts at United Roofing & Exteriors are here to tell you everything you should know about the effects of snow and ice on your roof. Read on to learn more!

What Are the Effects of Snow and Ice on Your Roof?

Snow and ice can be very heavy. All this extra weight can put a lot of stress on your roofing system. Roofs aren't designed to be supportive structures. They are designed to protect your home and your family from the elements. Heavy snow and ice can affect your roof in several ways. Some of them are:

1. Injuries from falling ice and snow: If too much snow and ice build-up on your roof, they can suddenly fall off like an avalanche. This falling snow and ice can cause injury to anyone below. Falling snow and ice can also cause damage to anything that's in its path below, like your vehicle. Doing your best to clear heavy snow and ice from your roof is the best way to prevent this. 
2. Water damage from ice dams: Ice dams are formed when the snow starts to melt, and the water collects at the edge of your roof, usually in the gutters. Ice dams are heavy and can cause severe problems for your roof. They can lead to roof leaks, water damage and mould in your home and structural problems that could cause your roof to collapse. Ice dams can be hard to prevent and get rid of, but here are a few tips to help you.
3. Carbon monoxide poisoning: As snow and ice build-up on your roof, they can start blocking off vents and chimneys, which can be extremely dangerous. If this happens, the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning is greatly increased. Clearing heavy snow and ice from your roof and installing a carbon monoxide detector can help you protect yourself.
4. Potential for roof collapse: In the worst-case scenario, your roof can collapse from the added weight of snow and ice. Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your roof, so it's essential to act quickly when you notice a lot of snow and ice building up on your roof. There are many ways to remove snow and ice from your roof; we have a few tips here.

How Can You Tell if Snow and Ice are Impacting Your Roof?

As we mentioned above, snow and ice can be extremely heavy. Sometimes it isn't always obvious just how heavy it may be. Because of this, you might not be aware of how much damage ice and snow are doing to your roof. Some common signs ice and snow are negatively impacting your roof are:

1. Creaking sounds: Creaking sounds can sometimes be written off as your house settling. But, if you hear creaking sounds after a heavy snowfall, it could be an indication of structural failure. If you suspect your roof is failing, call a local roofing contractor immediately.
2. Drooping ceilings: Drooping ceilings could mean that the snow and ice on your roof are too heavy or that it is causing water damage and starting to impact the structure of your home. If you suspect this is the case, we recommend having it checked out by a professional roofer right away.
3. Cracked walls: Cracked walls could be a sign of something such as foundation problems. But cracked walls could also mean that heavy snow and ice are weighing down on your roof and causing structural problems to your home property. If you have cracks in your walls (usually close to the ceiling), contact a roofing professional as soon as possible.
4. Water leaks: Water leaks coming from your roof can cause severe problems for your home. Roof leaks can cause mould, which is harmful to you and your family. Roof leaks can also cause water damage to your home and affect its structural integrity. If you think you may have a roof leak, contact a roofing company as soon as you can.

Roof problems can become worse very quickly. If you notice any of these signs, contact United Roofing & Exteriors as soon as possible so we can help you fix the issue before it becomes irreparable.

United Roofing & Exteriors is Here For All Your Roofing Needs.

Snow and ice are an inevitable part of the Saskatchewan winter. At United Roofing & Exteriors, we know how important it is to take care of your roof. Luckily, there are many steps you can take to ensure your roof is safe during the long Saskatchewan winters. If you're concerned about snow and ice on your roof or think your roof has become damaged from snow and ice, contact us today!