How Sacramento Winter Weather Affects Your Roof
While Sacramento homes are unlikely to see snow piled up, there still are winter weather conditions that can have an adverse effect on the integrity of your roof. Our winters are primarily wind and rain, with an occasional drop below freezing.
Water Damage
Winter in Sacramento is our rainy season. After many months of hot, dry weather the winter rains are a welcome. They help replace our depleted water supply, fill our lakes and rivers, and turn our landscapes green again. California has been in a severe drought and the heavy rains we are seeing this year are causing issues for many homeowners. Heavy rains, especially when coupled with strong wind, can accumulate and get under your shingles. Water that enters your home this way can leave unsightly stains on ceiling and walls, damage electrical wiring, and cause mold to grow inside your home.
As a homeowner, your best defense against water damage is regular inspection of the integrity of your roof as well as regular cleaning and maintenance of your roof and gutters. Another important aspect of your roof is ventilation. Be sure your roof has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture from being trapped.
Wind Damage
We already spoke of the wind/rain combo which can be particularly damaging to your roof. Wind alone can cause damage by lifting and loosening shingles. During our dry season, we may not even realize that damage has occurred until the winter rains set in. Another very good reason for having your roof inspected after a particularly strong windstorm.
Wind damage can also undermine the integrity of those beautiful trees surrounding your Sacramento home. Many trees have been stressed with the drought situation in California. When the wind sways these trees, heavy limbs may split off or even the whole tree could topple, and your home and roof may be in the fall zone.
Roof Repair
Roof damage can occur in any season, but the winter months can be particularly hard on your roof. If you can, walk around your home and do your own visual inspection after a storm. You should be able to detect if you have sustained damage.
Use binoculars if you have them. Look for piles of leaves, growth, or debris. Look for curled, buckled, torn, or missing shingles. Clean your gutters or have them professionally cleaned. The cost of maintenance is far less than the cost of roof repair.
