Winter in Canada can be harsh; particularly when it snows. The structure of your house also bears the brunt of the Canadian winter. It is not uncommon to see snow piled up on the roof of your homes and other buildings around you. But what you may not be aware of is that snow can have so much weight that it can impact the roof in an adverse manner. If it is not dealt with in a timely and right manner, it can even cause your roof to collapse. So, here is how to prevent such incidences from occurring.
Cleaning of downspouts and gutters
If your gutters are clogged, they make it difficult for the ice and snow which is melting to drain properly and can cause water pools on the surface of your roof. Clogged gutters can also lead to melting snow seeping down from your ceiling, causing structural damage and probable collapse. Keep the gutters and downspouts clean for a hassle-free winter and a strong roof.
Snow removal
Heavy snowfall leads to a fast accumulation of snow on your rooftops. As soon as the snowstorm ends, it is advisable to hire a contractor to remove the snow and prevent damage to the structure of your house via the rooftop. We would advise against doing this yourself as climbing a roof without having the proper equipment can be potentially hazardous leading to serious injuries and at times, death. Professionals do charge a sum for their services but they know their job, have the right equipment, and your safety is not compromised. For certain roof types, one can DIY this situation by removing the excess snow off the roof with a rake while standing on the ground, if and when possible.
Roof inspections
It is good to read those weather apps and be aware if a snowstorm is coming. You can hire a roof inspector to assess the current situation of your roof and if any immediate repairs are required you could get them done before a snowstorm hits. In this way, you can prevent any winter-related damage.
Besides these, you should self-inspect your roof for any visible signs of damage after the snow has been removed. A sagging roof or missing shingles could be the tell-tale signs of damage. Additionally, look for any bends in the roof support, cracks in the masonry or interior walls, leaks that are unexplainable, etc.
If you need any help with roof maintenance, feel free to ping us at All Stars Roofing.