Ignoring Ice on the Roof? Reasons Why That’s Dangerous
When winter snow and ice accumulate on your roof, you face the risk of costly damage to your home and other possessions. Ignoring roof ice, one of the most common consequences of harsh winter weather, can leave you with expensive repairs, or worse, require that you replace part or all of your roofing system.
At
RAO Roofing, we are dedicated to performing the highest quality roofing installation, repair, inspection, and ice removal in Grant, MI, and surrounding areas. In this blog post, we will discuss why ignoring rooftop ice can wreak havoc on your home and what you can do to prevent it.
What Is Roof Ice and What Causes It?
Roof ice forms when snow and ice accumulate and freeze on the roof of a building, making it difficult for snow and ice to melt and run off the roof. The weight of the ice and snow can be incredibly heavy, and puts a strain on your roofing system, particularly if you have an older model that might not be capable of withstanding the weight.
Roof ice occurs when the temperature outside is low enough to cause the snow and ice to accumulate on the roof and freeze, and the sun’s rays don’t have enough time to penetrate and melt it away. It is a common problem during the winter months in areas with heavy snowfall.
City skyline
Problems Ignoring Roof Ice Can Cause
When left untreated, ice on your roof can cause numerous problems, most of which can be costly and destructive:
- Puddled Water: Because rooftop ice prevents melting snow and water from running off your roof, it can collect and form puddles on your roof. This added weight can cause your roof to bow or even collapse.
- Leaks and Mold: Ice can also seep into your roof and cause leaks, which can be very damaging to your home and cost you a lot to repair. In addition to water damage, these leaks can also lead to the growth of mold, which can lead to a variety of respiratory and health problems.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Ice can also cause your gutters to become blocked or collect and freeze in downspouts, which can cause serious damage. Puddled water can seep into your foundation and cause it to crack.
- Reduced Curb Appeal: In addition to causing structural damage, roof ice will also take a toll on the aesthetic of your home. We have all seen roofs with large icicles hanging off them. These are not only unsightly but can also be dangerous to pedestrians.
What Can You Do to Prevent Roof Ice Damage?
While it is impossible to completely prevent ice from forming on your roof during the winter months, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of damage.
- Clear off Your Roof: Use a snow rake to clear off the snow on your roof after it has accumulated. This will prevent your roof from becoming weighed down by snow and ice.
- Keep Trees Trimmed: If you have trees near your home, take the time to trim them in the fall. This will prevent the branches from hanging over your roof and dumping snow on it.
- Install Heated Cables: This is a common solution to prevent roof ice. Heated cables are typically installed along the eaves of your roof in the fall and left on all winter. This will prevent ice dams from forming and can reduce the amount of snow accumulation.
- Insulate Your Attic: This is also a great way to minimize the risk of ice accumulation on your roof. By properly insulating your attic, you will prevent warm air from escaping and melting the snow and ice, which can result in melting snow refreezing on your roof.
- Contact a Professional: The best way to tackle roof ice is to
contact a professional roofing company like RAO Roofing. Our experienced technicians will be able to assess the extent of the damage and provide you with the necessary solutions, such as snow removal and heated cable installation.
Save Your Home from Damaging Rooftop Ice with RAO Roofing
Are you tired of dealing with costly home repairs due to rooftop ice? Stop letting winter weather wreak havoc on your biggest investment. At RAO Roofing, we have the experience and skills to provide you with preventative solutions that keep your roof ice-free. Whether it's a high-grade roofing installation, regular inspections, repairs, or professional ice removal, we've got you covered.
Don't ignore roof ice any longer! Contact RAO Roofing today and ensure the safety and longevity of your home. Our professional team in Grant, MI, is ready to assess your property's needs and will work diligently to offer tailor-made roofing solutions for your unique situation. Put a stop to the rooftop ice damage trend today, and enjoy a more stress-free winter with RAO Roofing. Act now before the first snowfall. Call us at
(231) 282-1932 today!
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