The Freeze and Thaw Cycle

Freezing and Thawing Temperatures Aggravate Roof Issues

Winter weather is shifting: daytime temperatures are on the rise while overnight temps are still reminding us of winter’s chill. These fluctuations aggravate existing (often unseen) roofing issues. It’s common to encounter new leaks as a result of the freeze/thaw cycle.

As temperatures rise, rooftop snow and ice continue to melt. The meltwater makes its way into small cracks or holes in the roof system. Then, when the thermometer drops again, the water freezes and expands by 9%, creating a void between the surrounding roofing materials. This allows more water to collect, continually growing and worsening the problem.

The Longer The Cycle Continues, The Worse The Damage Gets

This cycle affects all types of roofing systems, from shingles to membranes and metal. It can also affect any part of the roof that has collected moisture, including the gutters, decking, and insulation. Watch for changing coloration on your ceiling, which could alert you to a roof leak.

Clear snow away from gutters to help meltwater run off and prevent ice dams from forming under the snow.