With the recent havoc brought about by Winter Storm Bozeman, which covered more than 50 percent of the contiguous U.S. with snow, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the dangers that heavy snowfall can pose to a damaged or degraded roof. Cedar Square Homes, your Maryland roof replacement contractor, is here with information on these dangers, and how to prevent them from damaging your home.
The Dangers of Heavy Snow Loads
During the winter of 2010-2011, upwards of 500 roofs collapsed in the state of Connecticut alone due to the weight of heavy snow. While this event was farther north than Maryland, roofs in regions unaccustomed to heavy snowfall are often at a greater risk than those that are used to it, primarily because of a lack of preparedness. You probably know that snow is heavy, but it’s shocking how much just a single square foot of snow and ice can weigh. Dry snow adds about 3 lbs per square foot, while mixed ice and snow adds about 12 lbs per square foot. Wet snow, on the other hand, adds an astonishing 21 lbs per square foot.
On average, a US roof is about 2200 square feet. Under wet snow, your roof could easily have as much as 42,000 lbs of pressure on it. That’s equivalent to having 4 African elephants loitering on top of your home.
Protecting Your Roof From Snow Damage
It’s important to take stock of your Maryland roof’s health periodically, but especially before winter. Make sure to examine your gutters. Blocked or frozen gutters/ drains are one of the main causes of snow buildup, as are non-sloped, poorly constructed roofs. If your gutters aren’t draining, if you experience constant leaks, if snow and water just seem to sit on your roof, and if your roof creaks and groans under pressure, then it may be time to look at getting a roof replacement.
Roof Replacement with Cedar Square Homes
If you think you may need a roof replacement in Maryland, there’s only one company with the experience and expertise necessary to do the job right and at a price you can afford: Cedar Square homes. We know that protecting your roof and home is your top priority, and we’ll make it ours too. Customization is absolutely no problem and the materials we use are top quality. Throughout the project, we will stay in touch and be available for you when you need us.
You will have direct access to your project manager though the entire process. Calls are answered promptly and messages are returned within 24 hours.
Protect your home from a heavy snowfall with a roof replacement from the professionals at Cedar Square Homes. Contact us today at 410-987-9771.
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