Financing & Insurance Options
To keep your roof in good repair and prevent damage to your property from the impending winter weather, it is essential to get it ready for the inevitable snow and ice. A professional roof winterization includes both reactive procedures and proactive installations to prevent issues like ice dams, snow buildup and damage. This article will go over nine methods that experts use to winterize roofs, making them more secure and easier to maintain throughout the winter in Little Rock, AR.
1. Install Roof Heating Cables
A useful method for avoiding ice dams is roof heating wires, which also go by the name “heat tapes.” These wires, which run over the roof’s perimeter, generate heat to melt snow and ice that may otherwise accumulate and cause leaks or other structural problems.
2. Add Insulation
Keeping the roof at a constant temperature requires good attic insulation. Insulation keeps heat in, reduces the likelihood of ice dams and helps snow melt evenly on roofs.
3. Ensure Proper Ventilation
To control temperature, adequate ventilation of the roof is necessary. By having an expert take a look at your roof ventilation system, you can improve its performance, avoid ice jams and make your attic space healthier.
4. Clear Debris
Another first order of business that you must do while getting the roof ready for winter is to remove any branches, leaves or other debris. This is because the accumulation of moisture due to debris can lead to the development of ice dams.
5. Install Snow Guards
If you want your roof to be safe and secure all winter long, you need snow guards. Strategically placed snow barriers allow for the gradual melting of snow, protecting both you and your home from the potential dangers of abrupt snow slides. In addition to making the roof safer, this prevents damage and expensive repairs caused by uncontrolled snow shedding by maintaining the roof’s structural integrity.
6. Clean Gutters
Winter is the perfect time to clean the gutters so water can flow away from your home without forming ice jams. An ice dam might develop on the roof if the gutters get clogged and water can’t flow freely down the roof. Maintaining clean gutters also helps homeowners reduce the likelihood of structural damage and leaks by getting rid of unnecessary weight on the roof. Since cleaning the gutters can be dangerous, it’s best to have a professional clean them for you.
7. Inspect and Repair Roof Flashing
Roof flashing, which seals seams, slopes, and transitions, wears out over time. Having a professional inspect the flashing before winter’s cold weather sets in is a great way to check for signs of damage. The professional can make any necessary repairs to ensure damaged or missing flashing doesn’t result in problems down the road.
8. Create a Sloped Roof Surface
In regions that experience severe snowfall, roofing contractors can construct a slanted roof to reduce the likelihood of snow buildup. Since a steeper slope promotes natural snow shedding, the accumulation of snow does not pose any structural hazards. It’s a preventative step that strengthens the roof’s resistance to winter weather and lessens the likelihood of costly repairs.
9. Apply Roof Coatings
To keep snow from piling up on roofs in the winter, professional roofers may apply a variety of coatings. Coatings that reflect light, such as cool roof coatings, make snow less sticky by reducing its adhesion. Coatings with hydrophobic properties reduce the buildup of snow by repelling water.
Other types of coatings that can prevent snow accumulation on a roof include those made of elastomeric or silicone. Considerations such as weather, roofing material and individual requirements dictate which coating will work best. In addition to preventing snow accumulation, these coatings protect roofs against ultraviolet radiation, water and temperature changes, which in turn increase the roof’s lifespan.
Little Rock usually receives around five inches of mild to moderate snowfall each year. Even though this amount doesn’t seem like much, any snowfall accumulation can pose hazards to a roof. Timely measures, like insulation and snow removal, can prevent potential damage and ensure a secure home environment. Big Rock KangaROOF provides a variety of roofing services, including inspections and roof repairs. We specialize in shingle and metal roofing as well as storm damage remediation. Give us a call today to speak with a professional roofer about making your roof safe this winter.
