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How Maryland Weather Affects Your Roof

In Maryland, we are lucky enough to experience sunny beaches in the summer and snow-covered hills in the winter. But with four seasons of differing weather conditions, our homes’ exteriors are put through a lot. Learn how Maryland weather can affect your roof all year long.

Fall roof

FALL

Falling autumn leaves look great, but not on your roof or in your gutters. When gutters back up from leaves and debris in the fall, they can create backups that pull gutters away from the house. Inspect and clean your gutters each fall to make sure they are working well. Correctly functioning gutters should direct water away from your home’s foundation all year round.

While many people think of summer rainstorms, the Maryland area gets the same average rainfall in September as we do in March. If there is any break in the seal of your roof, heavy rain will penetrate it and cause leaking throughout the house. Check common areas for leaks such as damaged shingles, around the chimney, windows, and vent pipes when fall rainstorms hit.

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Winter roof

WINTER

In the winter, many homeowners are concerned about heavy snow building up on their roof but having enough snow to cause a roof collapse is very rare in Maryland. Snow and freezing rain create a different kind of problem when the roof is not properly ventilated.

When hot air from indoor heat rises through the ceiling to the attic, it warms the roof surface. Uneven heat melts snow on the heated area of the roof, which flows down until it meets the part of the roof that is below freezing. At that point, an ice dam can form. Ice dams can tear off your gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up under shingles that can drain into your attic. Avoid ice dams this winter by ensuring that your home has proper ventilation, your attic is sufficiently insulated, and your gutters are clear from debris.

Spring roof

SPRING

After the winter snow and ice have melted, you should check your roof and attic for leaks, cracks, and loose shingles. If the winter storms have affected your shingles, then spring rain will have an entryway into your home. Strong winds can also move panels and lift shingles on both new and old roofs. If winds are exceptionally high, they can even blow debris at your roof, causing holes and tears.

After spring storms, inspect your roof to see if there are lifted or blown-off shingles. If shingles are damaged or missing, they allow rainwater from the next storm onto the roof decking. Or worse, water can seep into the insulation in your attic and down through the drywall on your ceilings.

Summer roof

SUMMER

Summer heat and humidity can be just as dangerous to your roof as winter and spring storms. Excessive heat can make materials swell and contract, which causes shingle displacement and brittleness, especially if your roof is over 15 years old.

Just as proper ventilation and sufficient insulation are essential in colder months, they also keep your roof the right temperature during warm summer months, avoiding expanding and contracting as well as condensation from humidity. At the end of the summer, keep an eye out for signs of heat damage such as cracked, buckled, or curled up shingles.

Regularly checking your roof throughout the year is the key to keeping it in good shape and avoiding more costly home repairs in the future. If you notice any signs of damage to your roof at any point during the year, schedule a free consultation with a Brothers roofing expert. Our experts will assess the damage to your roof and recommend a repair or full replacement.