Common Roofing Issues During Winter

Several things can happen to your roof during the cold months of winter. It is important to address any active leaks or issues with your roof as soon as possible. This can prevent extensive damage to your roof and home. Proper maintenance is equally important in ensuring you get the most life out of your roof. That being said, here are 6 common issues that your roofing system can have during the winter months.

1. Moss

First, moss can cause a lot of damage to your asphalt shingles. It can stay dormant during the hot summer months. But the moss can start to sprout again as soon as the rain arrives. As it continues to grow, it can buildup on top as well as underneath your shingles exposing your roof to water leaks. Your shingles can lift and allow for water intrusion if the moss starts to buildup.

2. Flashing

Proper flashing is a key component to your roofing system. Flashing directs water to drain away from critical points on your roof like valleys, sidewalls or skylights. Water leaks can happen if flashing starts to fail or becomes damaged. This is usually an easy and fairly inexpensive repair. Catching it quickly could prevent more damage.

3. Chimney Cracks

Leaks around the chimney are one of the most common phone calls we get as a roofing contractor. It’s mistaken that the issue is because of flashing or improper installation of shingles. The most common reason for leaks around the chimney is cracks. Proper maintenance of the chimney can help prevent leaks. Water can buildup and freeze in cracks in the mortar.

4. Improper Attic Ventilation

Attic ventilation is a key component to the health of your roofing system. Proper attic ventilation gives a balance of intake airflow and exhaust airflow. Additionally, if the ventilation is inadequate, this could cause condensation to build up in the attic and produce mold. Ventilation can be a fairly inexpensive fix, so catching it and fixing as soon as possible could prevent further damage.

5. Wind Damage

Wind can cause severe damage to your shingles. With this in mind, if shingles are not sealed or nailed down properly, a good windstorm could tear off areas of shingles exposing your roof deck to the elements. This could be an isolated incident or it could mean your roofing system is failing. Without a doubt, call a roofing professional to inspect your roof.

6. Clogged Gutters

Lastly, gutters play a big part in keeping your roof and home safe from the elements. Clogged gutters prevent water from properly draining allowing water intrusion into your attic, siding and potentially cause damage to your foundation. Keep gutters clear of any debris. It could be beneficial to install gutter guards if you live in an area of heavy tree coverage.

In conclusion, our in-house installers are factory trained and certified. Most have been with us for 10 years or more. MCE has been a GAF Certified Contractor since 2011 and has held the President’s Club Status since 2014. Master Elite Certification is GAF’s assurance that your roof will be completed professionally and with quality.

Above all, get a professional roofing contractor’s opinion. This will give you peace of mind knowing the roof is in good condition. Here at MCE, we offer free evaluations of your roofing and gutter systems. Give MCE a call at (503) 397-2215 or Fill Out Our Free Roofing Consultation Form to schedule a contact-free roof evaluation. We are family owned and operated serving Columbia County, the Portland Metro and surrounding areas with over 25 years of experience.