How to Avoid Your Roof from Caving In
There’s nothing that screams “nightmare” more than a roof caving in. For homeowners, this can be a real threat if the roof system is ignored and not routinely inspected. There are also other factors that can increase the potential of a roof collapse. The costs and hazards of a roof collapse can be avoided if you know how to care for your roof. In the article below we will discuss different actions you can take to prevent your roof from caving in.
Be Mindful of Snowfall
Many homeowners live in four-season climates with winters subjecting them to heavy snowfalls, freezing temperatures, and ice formation. When snow accumulates on top of a roof, it adds extra weight. The biggest factor to watch out for to avoid a roof from caving in is added weight. You’d be surprised the amount of weight a heavy snowfall can contribute to your roof. It piles up, becoming trapped in the roof’s creases in gutters.
The longer the snow sits on your roof, the higher risk you’ll have of damage caused to the roofing system. Roofs are designed for a certain amount of weight and if that threshold is challenged for too long, the moisture won’t have anywhere to go put beneath the shingles. Moisture and shingle damage is expensive to repair, so be mindful about the amount of snow a winter storm brings so you can remove it as soon as possible.
Avoid Added Weight
Just like with a heavy snowfall, any added weight can cause stress to the roofing system leading to cave-in. This means you’ll have to check to see if your roof can handle things like a new air-conditioning unit, solar panels, or a satellite.
If Possible, Stay Off the Roof
You don’t weigh enough to cause a roof collapse for the few times you probably make your way up to the roof, but if climbing up on the roof and spending time up there is something you do frequently, you may want to reconsider. Roofs aren’t designed for constant star-gazing. It’s hazardous to climb onto your roof and staying off as much as you can is both good for your safety and in preventing a future roof cave-in.
Be Proactive About Repairs
You should check your roof’s condition a few times a year, even if it’s just a casual visual inspection. Any damage should be addressed immediately. Shingles that are cracked or missing should be replaced, otherwise, you could be looking at a future roof cave-in if you don’t. Moisture will seep into your roof system and weaken it, which over time could cause a roof collapse in serious cases.
Your roof is the first line of defense against the outer elements, and that includes water damage. Being proactive about repairs will protect the roof’s lifespan as well as the rest of your home.
Always Call a Professional
Some repairs homeowners can tackle themselves, like a basic shingle replacement. However, inexperienced homeowners should always call their roofing contractor to do repairs if they’re unsure of how to fix a damaged roofing shingle or other issue. Warranties also cover common roofing problems, so give a professional a call instead of trying to fix the issue yourself. You could end up causing more damage. Over time, roof neglect, missing and damage shingles, and shoddy repairs can lead to the worst case scenario of a roof caving in.
Clean Your Gutters
Your gutters are essential in keeping your roof healthy. Clogged gutters means that the water has nowhere to go but to penetrate the roof system. Water damage, over time, can weaken the structural integrity of the roof and if exposed to any added weight, the roof can suffer from a collapse.
Snow that doesn’t have any place to go when it melts can end up sitting on your roof and finding its way into the shingles and decking. If this problem keeps occurring season after season, you’re destined to end up with a serious roof issue and that can mean sagging or a collapse. Clean your gutters and check your downspouts and drains. Water will have a path to be properly channeled off your roof and safely away from your home’s foundation.
Have Your Roof Regularly Inspected
The best thing you can do to prevent a roof from caving in is to have your roof routinely inspected by a professional. All homeowners should schedule yearly roof inspections to help protect their roofs and to ensure that the roofing system will last its designated lifespan.
Proper roof maintenance is key to making sure the roof will last as long as its designed to. Regular roof maintenance can stop snow from causing the roof to sag beneath excess weight. It can also prevent water damage from causing the roof to weaken over time. Being proactive and having your roof inspected every year will ensure you don’t have to face a potential cave-in.
At Feldco, we provide breakthrough design and triple layer protection to keep your roof insulated throughout the year. For a roof replacement, our installers are factory trained, experienced and professional to get the job done correctly. Speak to a product specialist and get a free quote today.
