The roof is an essential component of any building. It protects you and your property from weather elements, especially in harsh times, such as winter. It also protects other structures in your house, such as walls, beams, and pillars that are susceptible to damage by water.
If you’re yet to contact your contractor for roofing Plymouth Michigan, you may have questions such as, “Can I replace my roof in winter?”, “What are the benefits and risks of fixing your roof in winter?” or “How do I prepare my roof for winter in Michigan?”.
Home Pros Plymouth, Michigan, are experts on all roofing matters. Read on and learn why fixing your roof before winter is essential.
Why Should You Fix Your Roof Before Winter?
As winter approaches, it’s time to call your roofing contractor to check your roof for any damages that need fixing and also install your roof before winter.
Ensuring Proper Roof Repairs
While you can fix your roof over winter, there are several disadvantages.
Compromising roof material quality:
The materials used on your roof are compromised in cold temperatures. For example, asphalt shingles are easier to install in warm temperatures, preferably above 40 degrees Farrenheit. They become brittle in cold temperatures, and hammering them to prevent curling promotes breakage, which increases wastage and the costs of fixing a roof in winter.
Poor bonding due to cold weather:
Shingles have a strip of adhesive that seals on its own due to high temperature and pressure. If the temperature is too low, automatic bonding does not happen. If you’re wondering, “Can I replace shingles in winter?” Yes. However, the roofing contractor needs to hand-seal all the shingles with an approved roofing cement to ensure proper bonding. As you can imagine, the process takes more labor and time, which can be frustrating for contractors.
Poor equipment performance:
The roof materials aren’t the only items affected by cold weather. Some equipment used by contractors, such as nail guns, can develop ice and cold air inside. Without appropriate airflow, the guns may fail to drill nails correctly. As such, the roofing Plymouth Michigan specialists may work slower than usual. There is also the risk that all the nails may not be installed correctly, exposing your roof to further damage.
Finding Contractors
Remember that many contractors may refuse to fix your roof over winter if the conditions are unbearable and risky. The snow, water, ice, low temperatures and slippery conditions are dangerous for external roof work. There’s also the extra burden of clearing snow and ice before construction begins and wearing heavy clothes and boots to survive the cold weather.
Fixing your roof in the fall helps you avoid the chaos of finding a reliable and experienced contractor. You may find that contractors charge lower prices due to slow business, but the risk to your roof may not justify waiting till winter.
Saving The Structural Integrity of Your Home
Winter comes with snow, rain, and ice, which can compromise the structural integrity of your home. If you have a leaking roof, the water dripping into a bucket might not be the biggest problem. Remember that wooden structures in your roof lose strength as they absorb water. Leaks also expose metallic parts to corrosion.
Once the structural parts of your home are affected, repairs become more costly because they may include full replacements. To reduce high future maintenance costs, use preventative maintenance to prevent leaks.
Preventing Mold Infestation
As the water seeps into your roof, ceiling, walls, and basement, it creates ideal conditions for mold growth. If the mold infestation is large enough, you’ll begin to have damp and moldy smells in your home. There is also the risk of developing allergic reactions to mold. You and your loved ones may experience irritation in the eyes, nose and throat and difficulty breathing if you’re allergic to mold and have underlying respiratory conditions.
Eliminating Electrical Hazards
Water dripping into your house may flow into your wiring and electrical connections. Any electrical short circuits may spark a fire in your home and cause extensive damage to your electrical connections.
Ensuring the Longevity of Your Roof
Your roof will serve you longer if you fix small mistakes before they grow into huge problems. Preventing leaks and damage to your roof structure keeps it sturdy for years to come. However, should you notice any problems during winter, it’s best to contact your roofing contractor for emergency repairs.
Signs That You Need To Fix Your Roofing Plymouth Michigan Before Winter
If you’re not sure that you need roof repairs and replacements before winter, there are several warning signs you can look for. You can also contact a professional contractor to inspect your roof and advice you accordingly.
The Age of Your Roof
Most roofing materials come with expected durability and warranty periods. When that time passes, the integrity of the roof becomes compromised. If your roof has served you for more than 20 years, it’s wise to schedule regular inspections for any signs of deterioration.
The Condition of Your Shingles
If you have shingles on your roof, check them for curling, buckling, and breakage. If they’re missing, you have more reason to be concerned. You can also check your gutter for shingle grit and granules, which indicates that your shingles are deteriorating.
Leaking
Brown and wet patches on your ceiling indicate leaks in your roof. Check your attic regularly, especially after rain or ice formation, for any signs of leaks.
Rising Energy Costs
If you notice that your power bills are higher than other winters, it’s wise to ask a contractor to inspect your roof insulation. Your insulation could be compromised by water, or your roof may be allowing heat escape.
Moss and Mold
If you notice green and whitish patches on your roof and attic, they are signs of growing moss and mold. Unfortunately, the moss traps water, which encourages rot in your roof, while mold causes respiratory problems.
Roof Sagging
Your roof should be in a straight line and flat. If you notice a depression, then the roof structure has lost strength and needs immediate replacement.
Ask a Contractor To Check Your Roof Before Winter
The ideal roof repair starts with finding an experienced and qualified contractor. Home Pros Plymouth Michigan are experts in all roof repairs and replacements. We ensure that your roof is ready for winter to prevent further damage. Contact us today to schedule a roof check-up and maintenance.
