The Impact of Extreme Weather on Roofs and How to Protect Them

Extreme weather is one of the biggest threats to the integrity of your roof. It is also the reason that you need a good roof to protect your home and your family from potential damage. Any type of strong storm, high wind, heavy snowfall, ice, snow, and hail can lead to damage on the roof.

The biggest threat to your roof is also the most unavoidable one—water damage. Your roof will be subjected to storms, ice, snow, and sleet. All of these are potential sources of moisture. If there is a gap in the integrity of the roof, it can lead to interior leaks and water damage. Water on its own rarely damages the roof’s exterior, but water combined with other elements of extreme weather can lead to hidden damage, which can lead to mold growth and more.

Hail is particularly threatening to your roof. Hail can cause dents and damage to your roof, as well as your siding, windows, and doors. Anytime there is a hailstorm, you should have roofing professionals examine your roof to make sure that there has been no damage.

Snow may look lovely on a rooftop, but it is really heavy. It causes tremendous pressure on the roof. Plus, as snow melts, it traps moisture between its outer layers and inner layers, which makes it impossible for melted snow to escape. The trapped moisture can create cracks and leaks. If you start out with a roof that is in bad shape, it can even lead to cave-ins.

Wind damage is another potentially huge problem. The higher the speed of the winds, the greater the risk of storm damage. Wind can rip off shingles, damage gutters, damage the roof, or even rip off the roof entirely.

Protecting your roof begins with regular inspections. You should check your roof annually to ensure that it is in good shape to withstand bad weather and complete any necessary repairs. Trimming trees near your household and securing potential flying objects before a storm can help protect your property. You also want to maintain the roof and keep it clean to help keep mold, mildew, and rot at bay.