Winter Woes: What Snow Can Do to Your Roof

Winter in Edmonton, Alberta, brings beautiful snow-covered landscapes, but along with the scenic beauty, heavy snow can also bring potential damage to your home—particularly your roof. As the snow piles up, it may cause problems that can be costly and dangerous if not addressed properly. At Gateway Builders, we want to ensure you’re prepared for the challenges that come with Edmonton’s snowy winter. In this blog, we’ll discuss how snow can affect your roof and what you should watch out for to protect your home this season.

1. Heavy Snow Load

One of the most significant risks to your roof during Edmonton’s winter is the accumulation of heavy snow. Although most roofs are designed to handle typical snowfalls, extreme snow accumulation can place excessive weight on the structure. Over time, this weight can lead to sagging, structural stress, and even collapse in severe cases.

Signs to watch for:

• Sagging roofline: If your roof starts to sag in the middle or along the edges, it’s a sign that the snow load is becoming too much for the structure to handle.
• Cracks in walls or ceilings: These are warning signs that your home’s structure is under stress, which could be a result of too much weight on your roof.
• Popping or creaking noises: These sounds may indicate shifting or stress in the roof’s framing, suggesting the snow load has become hazardous.

How to prevent heavy snow load damage:

• Regular snow removal: Safely removing snow from your roof using a roof rake can help reduce the risk of damage. Be cautious when doing so to avoid injuring yourself or damaging the shingles.
• Hire professionals: For large amounts of snow or hard-to-reach areas, consider hiring professionals to clear your roof safely and effectively.

2. Ice Dams

Ice dams are a common winter roofing problem in Edmonton and can lead to severe damage if left unaddressed. Ice dams form when heat from your home escapes through the roof, causing snow to melt. As the water runs down the roof and reaches the colder edges, it refreezes, creating a buildup of ice. This ice blocks further water from draining, causing it to pool and seep under the shingles, leading to leaks inside your home.

Signs to watch for:

• Icicles along the roofline: While icicles can look picturesque, they are often a sign that ice dams are forming.
• Water stains or leaks: If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls during the winter, it may be a result of ice dams allowing water to penetrate your roof.
• Cold spots in your attic: Uneven temperatures in your attic can indicate poor insulation, which contributes to ice dam formation.

How to prevent ice dams:

• Improve attic insulation: Ensuring that your attic is well-insulated will help prevent heat from escaping and causing snow to melt unevenly on your roof.
• Ensure proper ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation allows cold air to circulate under the roof, keeping the surface temperature consistent and reducing the risk of ice dams.
• Clear gutters: Clean gutters before winter to ensure that melting snow and ice can drain properly, preventing ice dams from forming.

3. Roof Leaks and Water Damage

When snow and ice accumulate on your roof, they can cause moisture to seep into your home. This is especially concerning when the snow starts to melt, as water can find its way through weak spots in your roof, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home.

Signs to watch for:

• Water stains on ceilings: These could indicate that water is leaking through your roof and soaking into the ceiling.
• Dripping or water pooling: If you notice dripping inside your home, it’s a sign that water is actively leaking through the roof.
• Peeling paint or warped wood: These are common signs of moisture buildup and can point to hidden leaks in your roof.

How to prevent roof leaks:

• Inspect your roof regularly: Before and during winter, inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or other vulnerabilities where water could enter.
• Ensure proper flashing: Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights should be properly sealed to prevent water from seeping in.
• Address leaks immediately: If you notice any signs of a roof leak, act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact a professional to assess and repair the problem before it worsens.

4. Roof Ventilation and Condensation

Proper roof ventilation is crucial in winter to prevent condensation, which can lead to mold growth and structural damage. When warm air from inside your home rises to the attic, it can create condensation if there’s insufficient ventilation. This trapped moisture can damage insulation, rot wooden beams, and lead to mold problems.

Signs to watch for:

• Frost in the attic: If you notice frost accumulating on the inside of your roof or in the attic, it’s a sign that condensation is forming due to poor ventilation.
• Musty odors: A musty smell in your attic or home can indicate mold growth caused by excess moisture.
• Wet insulation: Insulation that feels damp or looks discolored may be absorbing moisture, reducing its effectiveness and leading to further problems.

How to improve roof ventilation:

• Install or maintain roof vents: Ridge vents, soffit vents, and gable vents help promote airflow, allowing moisture to escape and preventing condensation.
• Seal air leaks: Seal any gaps in your attic where warm air could escape from your living spaces, helping to reduce moisture buildup.

5. Shingle Damage

Cold temperatures, heavy snow, and ice can cause wear and tear on your roof’s shingles, leading to cracking, curling, or even missing shingles. Over time, this damage can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks and other structural issues.

Signs to watch for:

• Missing or damaged shingles: Look for shingles that appear cracked, curled, or are missing entirely.
• Granules in gutters: Finding shingle granules in your gutters can be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating and need attention.

How to prevent shingle damage:

• Inspect your roof: Perform regular inspections before and during winter to catch early signs of damage.
• Schedule repairs promptly: If you notice any damaged shingles, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further issues.

Final Thoughts

At Gateway Builders, we understand that winter can be a challenging time for homeowners in Edmonton. Snow and ice can cause significant wear and tear on your roof, leading to costly repairs if not properly managed. By staying vigilant and taking preventive measures, you can protect your home and ensure your roof stays in great condition throughout the snowy season.

If you need help preparing your roof for winter or addressing any issues that arise, don’t hesitate to reach out to Gateway Builders. Our team of experts is here to assist you with all your roofing needs, ensuring your home stays safe and warm no matter how much snow Edmonton’s winter brings.