Winter in the Willamette Valley usually means steady rain rather than heavy snow, but cold snaps, freezing nights, and prolonged wet weather all put extra strain on a roof. Here’s how to protect your home through the winter months.
Watch for ice dams during cold snaps. While we don’t typically get heavy snow, a hard freeze following wet weather can create ice dams along the eaves, especially if attic insulation or ventilation isn’t up to par. Ice dams form when heat escaping from the attic melts snow or ice on the upper roof, which then refreezes at the colder eaves, creating a dam that traps water behind it. This trapped water can back up under shingles and into your home.
Keep gutters clear all winter long. With rain being nearly constant, clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of winter water damage. Falling leaves and debris can build up quickly, so it’s worth checking them periodically throughout the season, not just once in the fall.
Watch for prolonged standing water. Flat or low-slope roof sections are particularly prone to pooling during weeks of steady rain. Standing water that doesn’t drain within a day or two can indicate a drainage problem that’s worth having looked at before it leads to leaks.
Check for interior signs of trouble. Winter is when small roofing issues tend to reveal themselves indoors, whether it’s a musty smell, a new water stain on a ceiling, or a draft near the attic access. Catching these signs early can mean the difference between a simple repair and a much larger project.
Don’t wait until spring to address problems. Cold, wet weather makes some repairs more difficult, but putting off a known issue all winter usually makes it worse. If you notice a problem, it’s better to have it assessed sooner rather than later. Fivecoat Roofing is available throughout the winter for inspections and repairs for homeowners in McMinnville, the Portland metro area, and the greater Willamette Valley.
