Your roof is one of the home's first and most important lines of defense. While it's exposed to all the elements, some dangers can weigh on the roof more than others. This risk is literal when it comes to loads on the roof.
When might a heavy load be dangerous for your roof? And what should you do about it? Here's what you need to know.
1. Limbs
Trees are one of the few things tall enough to pose a physical falling risk for the roof. So, what should you do if you see or hear fallen tree limbs on the roof?
First, assess the size of the limb. Smaller branches can often sit until it's safe to get them. However, large and potentially heavy limbs may cause more damage if perched on a section that was already damaged by the fall. Inspect inside the house if you can't get safely on the roof, looking for signs of structural damage.
If the limb fell due to a powerful storm, it's often best to wait until the storm passes before removing it. Safety must come first. Work with a professional roofing contractor or tree service rather than put anyone at risk. Then, always have the roof inspected once the limb is gone.
2. Snow
A good roof is built to withstand normal winter snow. However, it could be in danger as more and more snow piles up during a storm. The closer it gets to a foot of snow sitting on the roof, the more that load can damage the roof shingles, flashing, or sheathing.
All snow is not the same, though. Wet snow, often seen in the late spring, is much heavier than light, powdery snow. The heavier the snow, the less of it you should let accumulate.
If you notice sagging in the gutters or on flat parts of the roof, call a roofing specialist to remove the snow as soon as possible. And keep an eye out for signs of moisture damage on the inside of the attic or ceilings. The snow pile will only make small problems worse if left alone.
3. Ice
Ice is one of the most dangerous weather conditions for a roof. It is significantly heavier than the same amount of snow, so you must act much sooner — often even with only a few inches of ice on the roof.
If large ice dams form along the eaves, call a roofing pro before that blockage pushes water into the shingles and causes moisture damage. And if it's likely that ice will thaw and refreeze multiple times in upcoming days, take advantage of daytime thaws to have melting ice removed.
Where to Start
Does your roof face one or more of these heavy loads? No matter what, a professional roofer is your best ally against damage. Call a roofer to learn more.
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