As the country is more than halfway through fall and winter is just a few weeks away, New Mexico has been experiencing below freezing temperatures regularly. Freeze warnings and watches have been in effect as early as the first weeks of November. Some news reports have warned residents of ice and snow sleet, which may make traveling a bit difficult and dangerous.
Apart from travel, roofing is also one of the concerns of many property owners, as freezing temperatures and snow may result in various problems. Is your roof ready for the cold weather? Here are some adverse effects and problems on your roofing in New Mexico that you may have to deal with, whether you have a flat, low slope, or steep roofing:
Ice Dams
Ice dam is the buildup of ice at the edge of a roof that blocks melting snow from draining through the gutters. When water can’t run off the roof, it may back up, seep through the underlying layers, and cause damage. It often occurs after a heavy snowfall followed by a period of freezing temperatures.
Without proper ventilation and insulation, the roof may have warm spots caused by the accumulation of hot air in the attic. These portions may melt the snow on the roof. When the water reaches the overhang, it may refreeze, as the overhang has the same temperature as the outdoors. This will result in icicles and ice dams.
Roof Collapse
Although snow and ice can accumulate easily on flat and low slope roofing, a roof collapse is also possible on a steep roof.
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) notes that many residential roofing can withstand 20 pounds per square foot of snow before the weight may have any effect on them. The snow load may be different, however, if your roofing structure is already compromised.
According to the IBHS, a 10- to 12-inch of fresh snow is equals to about five pounds per square foot of roof space. An average roof may be able to handle about four feet of fresh snow before it becomes stressed. On the other hand, an average roof may not be able to tolerate packed snow that is greater than two feet.
If your roof has to carry an added weight caused by the accumulation of fresh and packed snow, remember than two feet of packed and two feet of new snow may be too much for it.
Ice and snow accumulation on the roof can cause many problems not only on your roofing, but on other parts of your home, too. It may lead to leakage, especially when melted snow seeps through the underlying roofing layers. To avoid problems and prevent roofing accidents, don’t try to get the snow and ice off your roof on your own. Contact New Mexico roofing professionals, such as Goodrich Roofing.
Established in 1946, Goodrich Roofing is a family business that has helped many property owners manage their roofing in Albuquerque, Los Alamos, Rio Rancho, and neighboring areas. We are a certified green roofer. Furthermore, we have received certifications from leading brands, such as GAF, Owen’s Corning, GenFlex, and Johns Manville.
Prepare your roof for the cold weather. Get in touch with us to receive a no obligation estimate.