Winter storms and deep freezes can sweep through without warning, damaging your home. While asphalt shingles are designed to withstand inclement weather, extreme conditions can still cause issues that are difficult to identify during the middle of winter. However, spotting problems early ensures you can repair the structure promptly and prevent further damage. Below are several indications that your roof needs professional attention.

How Can You Identify Winter Roof Damage?

1. Damaged Shingles

Asphalt shingles form the protective outer layer of your roof. Over time, snow, ice, and rain can damage them, penetrating the asphalt on the outside. When this happens, the moisture starts to dissolve the interior material, causing the shingles to warp and crack due to the stress. Additionally, the water inside can freeze, lifting shingles off the roof entirely. This can leave large sections of your roof bare, exposing the vulnerable decking beneath. This increases the risk of a leak during the next storm. Prompt repairs can prevent this issue from occurring, as a roofer can replace the damaged or missing shingles.

2. Missing Granules

Asphalt shingles are covered in small granules made of crushed stone. These small, raised dots prevent algae from growing on the surface and help the material resist ultraviolet rays. Over time, the adhesive holding the granules onto the surface starts to degrade, typically due to water damage. This can also happen when overhanging tree branches scrape the roof during high winds. Regardless of the cause, this indicates the asphalt shingles are weakened and cannot adequately protect the home.

3. Ice Dams

Not all roofing problems directly affect the shingles. Instead, they may lead to issues with other components, such as the gutters. During winter, melting snow at the top of the roof can accumulate in your gutters and become trapped by debris. Over time, the water freezes and creates ice dams, which are heavy, solid obstructions that prevent water from flowing. Eventually, icicles will form, further weighing down the gutters. When future meltwater cannot drain effectively, water backs up onto the roof and damages the underlayment. Additionally, the weight of the ice can pull the gutters from the roof, damaging the eaves and stressing the support beams.

If you need help fixing your roof after a winter storm, contact Roberts Roofing & Repair in Atkins, AR. These professional contractors handle everything from roof replacement to siding installation and deck building. They are locally owned and operated and work with a variety of materials. Call (479) 641-0783 to schedule an appointment, and visit the website for more information about their services.