Unfortunately, Northern Illinois is susceptible to harsh winters. Between winter snow storms and polar vortexes, your roof can become vulnerable to damage.
Like snow and ice, freezing temperatures can harm your roof. The extreme cold can impact your roof in the following ways:
Shingles can become more fragile
Flashing can sustain damage
Freeze-thaw cycles can cause leaks
Ice dam formation can cause water damage
In this blog, we’ll discuss the top four ways cold temperatures affect your roof so you know what can happen in these conditions.
Shingles can become more fragile
Asphalt shingles are known to deteriorate when it's extremely cold outside. They become brittle and crack, curl, or break off when they lose flexibility.
In addition, cold weather can affect the adhesive used on asphalt shingles. The adhesive is more likely to weaken over time. While the effects may not be immediately noticeable, this deterioration can weaken shingles, making them more prone to lifting or detaching in strong winds.
Regularly inspecting your roof for missing, cracked, or damaged shingles can prevent costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Flashing can sustain damage
Similarly to shingles, extremely cold temperatures can also impact roof flashing. Flashing is a thin material that seals areas where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as chimneys, skylights, or vents.
If water seeps under the flashing and freezes, it expands, causing cracks or separation. Over time, you may notice water leaks, damage, and potential structural issues inside your home. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can weaken the flashing, making it less effective at keeping moisture out.
Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify early signs of damage and prevent costly repairs.
Freeze-thaw cycles can cause leaks
Homeowners in the Midwest know that temperatures can drastically fluctuate throughout the winter months. These changes can cause freeze-thaw cycles, which can negatively affect your roof.
If you have poor ventilation, your shingles may have moisture trapped underneath. When a significant amount of moisture freezes when the temperatures drop, any cracks in your shingles may expand. Since water expands when frozen, this can cause small cracks in shingles to widen or lead to buckling and curling. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, allowing water to seep further into cracks and crevices resulting in expensive roof repairs to remedy water damage.
Ice dam formations can cause water damage
The freeze-thaw cycle along with improper ventilation can cause ice-dams to form. When heat from your attic causes snow and ice on your roof to melt quickly, the water runs down to the colder eaves near the gutters. There, it refreezes, leading to the formation of ice dams or icicles.
Over time, this leads to water leaks, damage to insulation, and even mold growth inside your home. Proper attic insulation and ventilation can help reduce the risk of ice dam formation during freeze-thaw cycles. Knowing what to look for when the temperatures drop below freezing can help you prepare for any roof damage.
Be worry-free with Ken-Z Roofing this winter!
At Ken-Z Roofing, we know how frustrating it can be to continuously worry about your roof every winter. Between the heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and high wind gusts, your roof can be at risk for numerous problems.
That’s why our team of professional roofing contractors is here to help you. By evaluating the condition of your roof, we’re able to make expert recommendations to repair or replace your damaged roof. Call us today at 815-395-8244 to schedule your free 12-Point Inspection.
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