How Maryland’s Winter Conditions Can Cause Roof Damage

During the winter in Maryland, we experience high winds, rain, heavy snow, and ice. This combination can wreak havoc on your home, especially your roof, siding, windows and doors, and gutter system. Homeowners often experience minor or major winter roof damage due to the weight of snow and ice on the roof and the impact of rain, hail, and high winds. At Harford Roofing & Exteriors, our experienced roofing contractors have seen it all. We can quickly assess winter roof damage in Northern Maryland and provide professional roof repair and roof maintenance services. Here is a look at how the weight of snow, ice dams, freezing rain, and wind can all affect the structural integrity and safety of your home.

High Wind Damage

The winter can bring high winds that cause significant damage to your home and property. Throughout February and March, Northern Maryland regularly experiences winds up to eight miles per hour, which can damage shingles, soffits, fascia, gutter systems, siding, and more. High winds can rip off flashing and damage the ridges and rakes of your roof. Your windows and doors can also sustain damage that affects their safety and energy efficiency. You can lessen your risk of wind damage to your roof by scheduling a roofing inspection in the fall and performing any necessary roof repairs and roof maintenance before the cold weather sets in. You should also perform a visual inspection of your roof, siding, gutters, windows, and doors after every major storm.

Heavy Snow Damage

Many roofs in Maryland are not designed to handle the heavy weight of snow. When snow builds up on your roof, it puts a huge burden on your roofing and gutter system. It can cause cracks and breaks, leaks, and even a roof collapse. Wet snow is even heavier and creates a higher risk of damage. If your roof already had structural issues or damage, one big snowstorm is enough to cause a major issue. Our roofing contractors can inspect your roof before the first snow hits and look for signs of leaks, cracks, sagging, or other damage. If you repair these issues before snow falls, you will have a much lower chance of winter roof damage. You should also pay attention to how much snow is building up on your roof and use a roof rake to remove snow before it becomes a problem.

Condensation and Humidity

Snow, rain, and ice on your roof can increase the condensation on your windows, especially your attic windows. When you have your heat on, the combination of condensation and heat can create excess humidity in your home. Eventually, this may lead to mold or mildew growth, wood rot, water damage, and points of entry for pests and animals. Scheduling regular home maintenance tasks can reduce your risk of condensation and humidity. We recommend scheduling an inspection of your roofing system, gutters, soffits and fascia, ventilation, insulation, plumbing appliances, heating system, and dehumidifiers in the late summer or early fall. Patching up holes and cracks and looking for signs of leaks can also reduce your risk of water damage.

Ice Buildup and Ice Dams

Another side effect of running your heating system or furnace in the winter is that the hot air rises and warms your roofing system. Any snow on your roof will begin to melt and drip onto your eaves. This melted snow will then refreeze and create a barrier that prevents newer melted snow from traveling further down the roof. This backup causes water to seep underneath your shingles or roofing system and causes roof leaks or roof rot. As the water thaws and refreezes, it expands and can cause cracks, breaks, and holes in your roof. You can reduce your risk of ice dams by making sure your attic is well insulated and ventilated. Regular gutter cleaning and roof cleaning can also lower your chances of snow and ice buildup on your roof. You should also use a roof rake to remove snow from your roof after each heavy snowfall.

Gutter Damage

If you have a flat roof, icicles and snow can cause gutter damage. When ice builds up in your gutter system and downspouts, it is hard to remove without causing roof damage and gutter damage. Flat roofs are especially prone to gutter issues and drainage problems. When your drains freeze, they trap water and snow on top of your roof and eventually cause roof leaks. You should clean your gutters regularly to prevent debris buildup and reduce your risk of ice formation. You should also have your roof and drainage system inspected and schedule professional gutter cleaning, gutter maintenance, and gutter repairs before the winter weather begins.

Siding Damage

High winds, snow, and rain can cause siding damage in the winter, especially if you have wood or metal siding. Any issues with your roof’s gutter system or drainage system can also put extra wear and tear on your exterior siding. When your home experiences siding damage, you’re at an increased risk of leaks, mold, mildew, insects, pests, and animals. Your home may also become less energy-efficient, and your heating costs may rise. We recommend scheduling an inspection of your exterior siding every fall so that any problems can be fixed by professional siding repair or siding replacement services.

Window and Door Damage

Your home’s windows and doors are very important to maintaining the comfort, safety, and energy-efficiency of your home. A problem with your doors or windows can make your home cold and drafty in the winter, and can also increase your risk of condensation, high humidity, wood rot, mold and mildew, and pests and insects. Maintaining your doors and windows will ensure your home retains heat during the winter and the cold air stays outside. Walk all the way around the interior and exterior of your home in the late summer or early fall and check your windows and doors for signs of damage. If you get the damage repaired before the winter, you’re less likely to experience winter weather damage to your windows and doors.

Schedule Winter Roof Damage Repair in Northern Maryland

Don’t risk the safety, comfort, and value of your home by ignoring winter roof damage in Northern Maryland. At Harford Roofing & Exteriors, our team of experienced, professional roofing contractors can perform a thorough roof inspection and assess the damage your roof, siding, gutters, windows, and doors have sustained. We will then recommend the most efficient and cost-effective solution so your home will be safe and comfortable once again. Call us today at (443) 292-6020 or request a quote for the cost of roof repair, roof maintenance, and more.