To Weather the Storms, Winterproof Your Roof
Homeowners who live in New York don’t need to consult a meteorologist to know they need to be prepared for the possibility of rough winter weather.
Per Farmer’s Almanac, it is not unusual to see rapid-fire storms that will bring both rain and snow, with little downtime in between.
Although long-term winter forecasts typically become more accurate as we get closer to the season, based on historical weather patterns in the region, the National Weather Service concurs it is always wise to veer on the side of caution.
Winter storms can be particularly harsh on roofs, especially those that are already in need of repair so it would be wise to operate under the assumption that roofing issues are imminent.
One of the most common and damaging winter roofing issues are ice dams formed when heat escapes through the roof, melting snow which then refreezes at the eaves.
This creates a barrier that prevents proper drainage, causing water to back up under the shingles and potentially leak into the home. Roofs with poor insulation or ventilation are particularly susceptible to ice dam formation.
Adding Insult To Injury
For roofs that are already weakened or in need of repair, the additional weight of snow accumulation can cause sagging or cracking, leading to structural stress.
Meanwhile, strong winds during winter storms can lift and tear off shingles, especially if they are already loose or damaged. This can expose the underlying roof structure to moisture, leading to leaks and further deterioration.
Flashing, which seals the joints around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations, is particularly vulnerable during winter storms. If the flashing is already compromised, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause it to pull away further, allowing water to seep into your home.
Another issue that is commonly overlooked is poor attic ventilation which can lead to condensation problems. When warm, moist air from the living space meets the cold underside of the roof, it can cause moisture buildup, leading to mold growth and wood rot.
But snow isn’t the only culprit. Winter storms often come with heavy winds that can cause tree limbs to break and fall onto the roof, potentially creating holes or exacerbating existing weak spots.
Any existing issues with the roof, such as cracked or missing shingles, will likely worsen during a winter storm. The combination of moisture, freezing temperatures, and wind can accelerate the deterioration of already compromised roofing materials.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to address any roofing issues before old man winter rears his ugly head. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repairs help ensure your roof is prepared to withstand the challenges of winter storms.
Beware Tripping Over Dollars To Pick Up Pennies
Schedule a time for us to come out and do a free inspection. Our seasoned roofing experts will carefully research vulnerabilities and propose solutions to address them.
When choosing the right materials and contractors, its caveat emptor for homeowners who emphasize price over quality and long-term value.
The devil is in the details right on down to the last shingle. That’s why we recommend IKO performance asphalt shingles. They provide superior protection against wind uplift and water infiltration.
Wind uplift occurs when wind blows parallel to the surface of a roof, creating a pressure differential. As air moves across the roof, it creates areas of low pressure above the surface while simultaneously pushing against its underside, resulting in areas of higher pressure. The difference in pressure generates a suction effect that pulls upward on the shingles.
Leaving No Shingle Unturned
If you would allow us to indulge our inner geek and get technical for a moment, performance-class shingles are constructed of durable fiberglass covered with a thick coat of asphalt.
IKO’s proprietary FastLock sealant resists wind uplift, particularly in cold weather. When activated by the sun’s heat, it gets extra-tacky and creates a strong bond to help ensure maximum protection against wind uplift and blow-off.
As weather patterns become more unpredictable, Nordic and Dynasty shingles from IKO are manufactured and installed to deliver exceptional strength and resilience, high wind resistance and added flexibility for application in cold temperatures.
This powerful combination allows IKO Nordic shingles to act as a shock absorber and cushion the impact of snow, ice, and tree branches, earning it an industry leading Class 4 impact resistance rating.
Now, we’re not accountants but many of our clients qualify for a discount on their home insurance premium as a reward for implementing preventative measures so you might want to look into that.
The Science of Water Management
But the clincher in the fight against water damage are the tiny algae resistant granules that help inhibit the growth of blue green algae which can cause unsightly black streaks, stains, and color loss.
One of IKO’s most popular shingles is the IKO Dynasty architectural laminate shingles. They are bigger than most shingles in their class so that our installers can place them quickly, reducing labor costs and accelerating the construction process.
From an installer’s perspective, we like these shingles because they come with IKO’s ArmourZone, delivering unparalleled nail-holding power that helps the shingle resist high winds.
We’re also fans of its FastLock sealant because its thicker and aggressively promotes a stronger bond between the shingles and your roof while the larger nailing area supports more accurate workmanship.
From an aesthetic standpoint, Dynasty is available in IKO’s exclusive high definition color blends that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood.
Sophisticated Design Made Affordable
Our clients enjoy the high-end designer architectural appearance without the high-end designer cost. To ensure complete satisfaction, set up a consultation with one of our roofing experts who will show you samples of full-sized shingles and even test them on your roof when we meet with you in your home.
Our client’s reviews underscore quick and efficient service, transparent communication throughout the project, competitive pricing and value for the investment in your most valuable asset.
We only use high-quality roofing products with iron clad warranties backed by the peace of mind that comes with workmanship warranties in the installation phase of the project.
So when it comes to protecting your home from the elements, few things are as crucial as a well-constructed, durable roof.
What sets Next Level Contractors apart is our dedication to delivering a 5 star customer experience. Our team goes the extra mile, often addressing issues beyond the scope of the original project to ensure complete customer satisfaction. For more education and inspiration visit our blog.
Thank you for reading our blog article. Next Level Contractors is a home improvement and remodeling company serving the Capital District in the Albany, New York area. We specialize in exterior remodeling projects, including window, roof, and exterior door installations. Click here for a quote on your project.