We don’t all have a snow load calculator. So when the beautiful frozen flakes start to fall from the sky, we might not realize the damage their accumulation can cause. Every roof is designed differently and some can hold more snow than others. If you aren’t sure about your roof’s snow load capacity, then be aware of the different things that might push any roof past its limit.
Ice
If you’re new to a colder climate, then you might not know about how dangerous ice on your roof can be. When snow accumulates on your roof, you’re most likely warming up your house to fight the temperature. As your house heats, so does your roof. The ice can slide off of your roof and refreeze on the edges near your gutters forming ice dams. These can expand tiny cracks in your roof and gutters and cause major problems. Icicles can form in a similar way and cause equal problems.
To avoid this ice formation, make sure that your attic is well-insulated and your shingles are in good condition. If ice or water can sneak under your shingle it can cause a roof leak. You can also lower the risk of damage by cleaning out your gutters before the temperature starts to drop and raking snow off the edges of your roof.
Attic Issues
As snow and ice build up on your roof, it can also cause condensation on the ceiling of your attic. If this moisture is allowed to stay in your attic it can cause wood rot and mold growth, which can compromise your roof and make your family sick. Effective ventilation is the best way to avoid this problem. If air flow has a clear path out of the attic then the environment will not be condensation-friendly and the water won’t sit in your attic for long periods.