It’s starting to get cold out there (I say that at 59 degrees but it’s pretty windy currently, here in Georgia it is light jacket or even sweater weather but definitely chilly). Winters coming, as they say, we must brace ourselves. It’s better to take care of issues now so when it comes, you can rest easy knowing the cold is not costing you money and no matter how cold it gets, you have it covered. So, what are some things to know about cold weather and your roof?
Condensation
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air hits a cold surface, such as when your heated interior hits the cold roof deck. If this is occurring, unfortunately there is no quick fix, you need adequate ventilation installed and/or a vapor retarder at the ceiling level (trapping the warm air before it hits your roof deck). Neither is quick or cheap but necessary to prevent much larger problems in the future.
Ice Dams
Ice Dams occur when water or melted snow freezes at the roof edges or other areas where water may not be flowing properly. This can cause major damage by allowing water to pool, causing rot and leaks. There are ways to prevent ice dams with insulation and/or ventilation but once it starts happening there aren’t any real quick fixes (aside form pouring salt on them or other various methods of melting the dams as they form and that’s neither quick nor a fix). Having your roof inspected thoroughly will reveal any risks of ice damming and present viable solutions. If it is occurring now, something must be done sooner or later and the longer you wait the greater risk of major damage.
It’s better to have any roofing project done while the weather is still warm as any roofing project becomes increasingly more difficult the colder it is. Generally, the weather needs to be dry and at least 40 degrees or warmer. While it is possible to install roofs colder than 40 degrees, extra precautions are needed and the risks are increased.