When we think of winter, we are mostly concerned with the cold, shoveling, and how slippery the roads can get. You should also be giving some thought to how it affects your roof, however. Ice and snow can build up and prove to be too heavy for your roof. When this happens, it can collapse, causing thousands of dollars of damage inside your home.
Insurance Coverage
Many insurance policies will cover the depreciated cost of the roof. They may also cover the damage that is done to your home. Sometimes that kind of damage will mean you have to leave your home and live somewhere else, whether it is in a hotel or somewhere else. Insurance can also cover those living expenses. They will of course be subject to a deductible, which is one of the reasons that you should practice good roof prevention strategies.
What is an Ice Dam?
Ice dams happen when water builds up and creates blockages of ice along the side of your roof. The bigger they get, the more damage they can cause. They are often caused by leaks in your roof. Not leaks from outside, but heat leaking from the inside because of insufficient insulation. As the heat leaks out, it melts the snow, which drips down. Eventually it hits a colder spot on the roof and freezes. The dam that is formed just keeps growing as more water collects. The water is prevented from getting to the gutters to get directed away from your roof properly. The damage can affect your electrical work, drywall, and other components of your home.
How to Prevent Them?
There are a few things you can do to prevent ice dams. For one, make sure your attic is properly insulated, and ventilated as well. You can also have a shield installed on your roof that will protect against ice and water buildup. Also, clear out your gutters regularly so that melted snow can flow properly. You can also purchase a roof rake or have a professional clear the snow off your roof for you.
Never try to remove ice dams yourself if they have already built up. You could end up damaging your roof or getting injured. If ice dams have built up on your roof, call a professional to help get rid of them and to prevent them from happening in the future.
