Let it Snow, Let it Snow
If you live in an area that has you dealing with a lot of snowfall and that snow collects on your roof you need to be mindful of the mini avalanches that can occur…which can be dangerous to people, plants, animals, or property. You can consider installing a snow guard. A snow guard can stop these mini roof avalanches from occurring and holds the ice and snow in place until it melts. Again, it’s best to have the professionals install your snow guards.
The Wisdom of insulation
A poorly insulated roof can cost you thousands of dollars in waisted energy. Keep in mind, you’ll need some air space between the underside of your roof and the top of your home insulation of approximately two inches. You want to have an uninterrupted airflow under the roof and above the insulation. Under the insulation, on the side closest to the inside of your home, you need to make sure there is a good barrier. And make sure there are no holes or debris blocking uninterrupted airflow.
I Have a Leak… What Now?
First of all, you need to find the exact place that the roof is leaking. Keep in mind, that water can find its way to your inside sealing using many pathways. You may have to check the underneath of the roof sheathing for signs of water or maybe a visible stain. Most likely, your leak is due to flashing. The sheet metal or galvanized steel that is used to seal around chimneys and such. Check there first.
Wood Rood Fire Resistance?
First, don’t consider applying any chemicals on your roof that proport to be fire retardant most shingles that qualify as fire retardant, will be difficult to catch on fire. You just need to take care of your roof so it can take care of you. Start by giving your roof a yearly sweeping or air blowing to remove debris such as pine needles, leaves that have a knack of accumulating over time. Also, you’ll want to trim tree branches that overhang your roof to help mitigate future accumulation of debris.
Freezing Gutters… Stop it
You could run electric heating cables through your gutters and downspouts. But before you do, remember that accumulating water that later freezes is a symptom of a bigger problem. You have poor roof ventilation and runoff properties. Unclog your gutters and downspouts before winter. If they are free of debris, they’ll not likely have puddles forming and there won’t be a problem. As always, working on your roof can be dangerous so leaving it to the professionals is best. Especially when there is a chance it is icy up there.