Winter Weight From Ice Dams
Ice dams also invite additional winter weight on the roof. The added weight can stress the structure of the roof itself. ”Most residential roofs,” says the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), ”regardless of the location of the house should be able to support 20 pounds per square foot of snow before they become stressed. To assess the weight of snow and ice on your roof, use the chart below for a quick reference:
to their home by installing shingles rated for impact resistance. Insurance companies typically only approve a claim filed after a storm, so whenever hail strikes the local area, it is best to determine if your roof has been damaged as soon as possible. Many insurance companies offer a discount for homes with Class 4 shingles, the highest impact rating possible.
Many insurance companies offer a discount for roofs with class 4 ”high-impact” shingles.
Get an Inspection From a
Professional Roofing Contractor If a homeowner has conducted a visual survey and is still concerned, they should have their roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor. Trusted professional roofing contractors can provide a thorough and detailed examination of the roof to uncover any issues. After a severe storm, most can help homeowners figure out just how bad the damage is and walk them through the insurance claim and replacement process.
What Causes Ice Dams?
Ice dams are caused by variations in the temperature of the roofing surface, which lead to differences in how snow and ice form and melt on the roof. Typically, a roof’s peak is warmer and sheds snow, whereas the edge of a roof, especially the eaves, are much colder. Managing a roof’s temperature during colder months can prevent ice dams from forming by controlling heat loss from the home.
After a severe storm, have damage assessed quickly.
Roofing contractors inspect a roof in the same way as an insurance agent. They check a roof by dividing it into sections, and in case of a hailstorm, count the number of hail strikes per section to determine whether the roof requires replacement. A roofing contractor may also want to be present during the insurance inspection to support the case for roof replacement if replacement is necessary.
Make Repairs as Needed
These symptoms can even be indicators of roof damage from inclement weather events such as hail or heavy wind. On oxidized asphalt shingles, fading and brittle shingles can be evidence of granule loss—loss which can prematurely age the roof.
Severe weather events can produce hail and cause long-term problems for a roof. Homeowners in hail- prone areas can reduce the risk of impact damage
Regular roof repairs are a crucial component to improving the life of the investment and keeping inhabitants happy (and dry). Roofing repairs typically go beyond the abilities of do-it-yourselfers, so hiring a professional roofing contractor is the better way to go. In many cases, a contractor may even waive or discount the inspection if later hired for the repair work. While there are several reasons for trusting roof projects to the professionals, ensuring homeowner safety is at the top of the list.
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