Roof damage can happen at any time of year, but winter can be especially hard on your building’s roof. Ice, sleet and the occasional snow not only cause problems with your roof but also make them harder to fix. It is rarely a good idea to wait for spring before dealing with roof problems caused by cold weather, water, or other winter conditions. Roof Experts, based in Arlington, has worked with homeowners and businesses in Dallas, Fort Worth and across the DFW Metroplex since 2017 on every kind of roofing problem, so we know how important it is to deal with problems quickly before they get worse.
Dealing with roof problems in winter can be challenging because of the unpredictable weather, cold temperatures and the risk of further complications. To help homeowners understand how to handle common winter roofing problems in North Texas, our team has put together a few of the ones we see most.
Trapped Water is a Real Concern
If water gets trapped in your roof, it can cause leaks and damage in any season. Trapped water is a bigger problem in the cold months, because water absorbed by roofing materials or sitting in small gaps can freeze and expand, which widens cracks. As temperatures swing, that water can freeze and thaw many times, and each cycle adds to the damage. To keep water from getting trapped, make sure your attic is properly ventilated, and fix minor holes or leaks right away so water can’t get in at those points.
The best way to catch this kind of problem early is to have a reputable roofing contractor inspect your roof in the fall, before the weather turns. Finding problems early gives you the best chance of your roof coming through the winter in good condition.
Keep a Close Eye on Gutters
Strong winds and ice can wreak havoc on your gutters. If you notice that a gutter has slipped, or one end has pulled away from the house, you might be tempted to look for a quick fix. Call an experienced roofer as soon as you notice the problem instead, especially if one side has separated from the house. Another strong gust could pull the entire gutter off. While you wait for your contractor, ask for advice on keeping the situation from getting worse. In most cases, it is best to get help from a professional before trying to secure the gutters yourself, so you don’t cause more damage to your roof.
Dealing with Missing Shingles
Winter storms and strong winds can rip loose shingles off your roof. A few missing shingles may not be a major concern right away, but they can quickly turn into a bigger problem and even cause significant water damage. If you find you have lost shingles in a winter storm, contact a professional roofing contractor for a roof repair right away. In the meantime, there isn’t much you can do to fix the problem yourself, but you can keep a careful eye on your attic and ceilings for signs of a leak. If water is already coming in, our emergency roof repair page explains what happens next.
Work with Roof Experts in Arlington and DFW
The worst thing you can do with winter storm damage is leave it alone and assume it can be handled later. Instead of scrolling through pages of contractors wondering which one you can trust, work with our team at Roof Experts. We are CertainTeed certified, and our work carries a 5-year labor warranty. To find out more about our services, or to schedule a free inspection, contact us or call (817) 754-9484.