Toledo Winters Can Leave Your Roof Destroyed

Traditional shingled roofs are subject to damage from the elements, such as heavy snow and rain. Metal roofs are much more durable for the adverse weather conditions experienced in Ohio, withstanding all inclement conditions without damage. In addition to increased durability, metal roofs also insulate homes against the cold outside. With all the advantages of metal roofs, it’s obvious why they are becoming increasingly popular in cold climates.

Wind

Heavy winds can easily damage homes, especially shingled roofs. Shingles attach to roofs with roofing nails and are prone to fly off during heavy wind storms. On new roofs, wind storms can cause sand and shingle debris to blow off the roof, creating a mess. Often, shingles don’t blow off the roof immediately. Instead, the wind lifts and bents them, creating permanent creases.

Most metal roofs can sustain wind gusts of 140 miles per hour without damage, exceeding current regulation requirements. Shingled roofs often see damage around wind gusts of 60 to 70 miles per hour. If you live in an area prone to high winds, metal roofing will always be your best option.

Rain and Humidity

Living in an area with frequent rain and humidity will wear on your home. Mold, algae, and fungus can develop anywhere without the knowledge of homeowners. Often, homeowners are accustomed to seeing streaky, discolored roofs, and believe the marks to be normal wear and tear. If your shingled roof is discolored or has streaks, it’s likely algae. To be sure, look around your chimney and other metal portions of your room. Are they clear from discoloration? If the answer is yes, you most definitely have an algae problem. Most metals are toxic to algae, which prevents algae growth around the areas.

Metal roofing is resistant to mold, algae, and fungus, making it a popular choice in humid climates. Non-porous, hard-surfaced metal roofs don’t collect water the same as shingles. Water runs off without accumulating, which prevents algae from forming. In addition, the metal construction materials are toxic to the algae, also inhibiting growth.

Ice

The formation of ice on shingles is one of the most damaging of all the elements. After a freezing rain, ice will collect on the roof and in gutters. As the ice sits on the surface, it cracks shingles and infiltrates tiny holes. When the weather warms, ice melts and turns to water inside the layers of shingles. The layered shingles prevent proper drying, causing mold or algae to develop. The problem can become severe because of the moisture depth.

Ice on metal roofs will never leak into the lower layers. When the ice melts, it will slide off the roof without leaving moisture behind. If you live in a cold climate prone to ice, a metal roof is your best option. When installing a metal roof, be sure to have small ice-preventing brackets added. These will prevent ice from falling off in large chunks.

Snow

In cold climates, roof snow loads are a real concern. Homeowners who don’t clear heavy snow loads off roofs can cause roofs to collapse. After a particularly heavy snowfall in Massachusetts, authorities reported 70 collapsed shingled roofs in a 36-hour period. To avoid this dangerous situation, homeowners must shovel roofs once snow loads reach 40 pounds. Snow may need to be cleared sooner, if ice is also present on the roof. Never use salt products to prevent accumulations, as they can easily damage and discolor shingles.

Owning a metal roof in snowy climates can make your winters much simpler. As snow accumulates on metal, it slides off onto the ground, making shoveling unnecessary. The addition of brackets or brakes to break up snow will ensure ice dams and dangerous snow masses don’t fall from the roof.

Fire

The threat of fire is highest twice a year; in the winter and toward the end of summer. In the winter, many homeowners use wood fires to warm homes. If chimneys are not properly cleared for use, flue fires can easily start. These fires can spread easily to roofs, especially when there is dry debris present. Summer months bring the threat of forest fires. Sparks from flames can ignite homes, surrounding plants, and dry grasses.

While there is no sure way to prevent your home from burning, metal roofs can decrease the chances of danger. Metal roofs aren’t flammable like their shingled counterparts. Sparks from flue or forest fires are not likely to ignite a home with a metal roof. Most sparks from these occurrences land on traditional roofs and start the process. With a metal roof, the chances of a house fire significantly decrease.

Metal roofing systems are perfect for any climate but can prevent dangerous weather effects in places like Toledo where there are harsh winters. To ensure the safety of your family during winter months, consider replacing your shingled roof with a weather-resistant metal roof.