The effect an ice storm can have on your roof
If you have experienced an ice storm in your home,
then you know it can be very damaging to the exterior of the home, and this
includes the roof, deck, and fencing. Ice storm roof damage, in particular, can
be devastating and can cause homes billions worth of damage. Roofs may sustain manageable
impacts like cracks from an ice storm. In severe instances, roofs may totally collapse
from ice dams. Roof damage can also be hard to spot after an ice storm, so you
need to be keen when inspecting the roof. You need to know how to identify
possible ice storm roof damage before it gets worse. Fortunately, there are
signs discussed below, which you can look out for when inspecting your roof.
Because you might not be able to spot some of them, it is advisable to hire a
professional to carry out an inspection on your behalf and advice on the way
forward. Here are ice storm roof damages to look out for:
- Creased, split, or missing shingles
When inspecting the roof, you need to check the
shingles for bruises or splits. The extent of shingle damage partially depends
on the strength of the substrate below the shingle. A more structurally strong
decking will not flex too much during the storm impact, therefore lessening the
damage. Shingle bruises can eventually create cracks which will allow water to
seep into the house, which is why they must be attended to as soon as they are
spotted. Unfortunately, with shingle damage is not always visible to homeowners
after the storm, and you might require a roof specialist to inspect the roof.
2.
Washed off granules
Granules play a role of protecting the asphalt layer under your shingles from UV damage. Lost granules indicate damage and aging of your roof. After a storm, check in and around your gutters, and driveway, for excessive shingle mineral deposits or tile granules.
3.
Windows
If you have any windows in your roof, you need to
inspect these as well. Some of the common signs of window damage include cracks
and holes, broken panes, shattered windows and a damaged frame. Check the vinyl
trim, glass, and window glazing, for damage. If you see any of the signs
mentioned, contact a contractor to come inspect it and recommend possible
solutions. Damage to a roof window can easily lead to a puddle in your living
room.
- Other miscellaneous items
After an ice storm, check the soft metals on the
roof before inspecting the shingles. A storm will cause dents on the vents flashing
and exhaust caps, which you will need to be replaced. Cooling fins for A/C
condensing units might also suffer damage from an ice storm roof damage. If
that happens, you will need to contact an HVAC repair technician. Rain spouts and
gutters with dings or dents are also an indication of damage. Don’t forget to
check leaks in the ceiling. Torn or
split seams in the roof. These can result in serious water damage and
ultimately cause wood rot or mold formation.
How to prevent or minimize possible ice storm roof damage
While the amount of damage that an ice storm will cause
on your roof is unpredictable, there are things you can do to prepare for an
ice storm. The first is to clean out your gutters. Keep them clear and flowing.
You will also need to inspect your roof, paying attention to damaged or missing
shingles. If you notice anything which requires repair, schedule an appointment
with a contractor before the ice storm starts. This way, you will prevent
potential water damage during and after the ice storm. After the storm, remove
ice from your roof as soon as you can.
If your
roof experiences any damage from an ice storm, have your insurance company file
an insurance claim for you. You must identify these damages early so that you
can report the claim on time. Remember, most roof storm damage cannot be
observed from ground level. Therefore, do not assume that your roof has not
been affected because you cannot see the damage. Have it checked as soon as the
ice storm is over. The longer a roof sits with damage, the worse it gets, and
the more money it will cost you in repairs later. Contact a roofing expert and
schedule an appointment for a roof inspection. Depending on the level of
damage, your roof expert will suggest either a roof repair or replacement.
Contact us at perfection roofing for a professional roof inspection, repair, or
replacement. We would be happy to serve you. With our team of qualified
experts, you can be assured of exceptional service.