The snow is gone from your roof and you are left with water stains on the ceiling? Or perhaps you have come across ice in the gutters or a place where the roof sags. You may be wondering if the next winter storm will be too much for it to bear.
We at Point Roofing can put those concerns to rest. Since 2012 we have been the go to for Idaho homeowners with these very questions. Should you find any trouble in the aftermath of a hard snow season, pick up the phone at (208) 795-3041, and we will put you right about what your roof is in need of.
There is no denying the beauty of an Idaho winter but they are not kind to a roof. A good deal of stress is put on your home by heavy snowfall, roof damage that is apt to remain unseen until the thaw sets in. We have put together a rundown of the problems we most often encounter in Northern and Southwest Idaho after the big snows.
Ice Dams and Trapped Water
You will run into your share of ice dams as things warm up. The heat in the attic does its job of melting the snow higher up on the roof; the water then refreezes where it is colder at the edges. A ridge of ice will eventually form to impede drainage.
With no outlet, the water is forced under the shingles and makes its way in. Once the attic or walls get wet, rot and mold are not far behind, nor are stained ceilings. Be on the lookout for:
- Icicles of any size on the gutters or edge of the roof
- Staining on the interior of your walls or ceiling
- Ice at the eaves once the thaw has started
- Paint peeling in the vicinity of the roofline
- Insulation in the attic that is damp
Sagging and Structural Stress
Wet snow from one storm to the next is more of a burden than one might think. It exerts pressure on the structure of the roof which, over the course of a long winter, can result in cracked rafters, a weakened deck or some sagging.
While an Idaho roof is generally constructed to take the load, an older one or one with its share of wear is another matter. Any bowing or dip in the roofline should be cause for prompt action.
Shingles That Are Damaged or Missing
Asphalt shingles do not fare well with the freeze and thaw. They will crack, curl or become loose with the temperature changes, and a bit of wind from a storm can see them torn off. This exposes what is beneath to moisture and even a handful of bad shingles can be the start of a leak across the deck. An early spring inspection will usually put an end to such issues before they get out of hand.
Gutters
Gutters get their licks during snow season. The sheer weight of the ice and snow is enough to bend them, crack the seams or yank them from the fascia.
A gutter that is not working will let water pool by the foundation rather than drain off, inviting erosion and basement dampness. After a tough winter check for:
- Channels that are dented or bent
- Standing water
- Joints with cracks or gaps
- Any section that has come loose
- Overflow at the foundation
Water Damage and Leaks You May Not See
It can be weeks before the worst of the snow damage is apparent. Water will seep in and make its way along the beams before putting in an appearance on the ceiling. Often there is hidden rot by the time a stain is noticed.
Homeowners have a tendency to put off calling for assistance until the situation is dire. An inspector from us can find the small leaks and spare you a bigger bill later on.
An Early Check is Worthwhile
Once the snow has cleared is when you should have your roof looked at. It is less expensive and involved to remedy a minor problem than what it becomes. And it is the best way to ensure your roof sees many more winters in Idaho.
Point Roofing is an A+ rated, Better Business Bureau accredited company with over 400 reviews to our name from homeowners in the area. We service both commercial and residential properties from Boise and Meridian to McCall, Sun Valley and Twin Falls. Financing via Service Finance is an option for larger work and we provide free estimates.
Do not put it off until the next storm if you have reason to be concerned. Give us a ring at (208) 795-3041 and let our team have a look so we can help you keep your home in good order.
