Severe Winter Ice Storms Causing Major Damage to Trees and Roofs

Feb. 2, 2011 - PRLog -- The heavy ice storms pounding the Midwest and Northeast this week have not only caused frustrating traffic delays, unexpected work and school closings, inconvenient business interruptions and lost productivity, but also have resulted in costly damage to residential trees and roofs.

Freezing rain and ice buildup can add a significant amount of additional weight and stress on trees, often resulting in branches snapping off, or in extreme cases, the entire tree cracking and breaking in two.  The extreme, gusty winter wind-blasts that have accompanied this week’s storms have worsened the problem by putting added strain on the already heavy, ice-laden branches.

Homeowners watching their beloved old trees bend and crack under the tremendous weight of the ice have another worry – their roof.

In many cases, large branches or even the entire tree may break and fall in the direction of the house, often causing major damage to the roof, gutters and siding.  A sizeable, mature tree loaded with a considerable buildup of ice may weigh upwards of a thousand pounds or more, and this excessive weight can pack an enormous force when it comes crashing down unexpectedly.

The powerful impact of falling, broken branches can dislodge shingles, damage gutters and downspouts, rip siding off or even cause major structural damage to the roofing system. Another concern is the potential damage that can be caused by the extra weight of snow and ice buildup on the roof.

Heavy, recurring snowfalls when the temperature remains below freezing can cause a substantial accumulation of ice and snow on the roof. Often, roofs suffer serious damage due to failing or collapsing under the additional crushing weight.  In December, the Metrodome in Minneapolis experienced a roof failure caused by an accumulation of snow and ice.

Overhead Roofing, a veteran Cincinnati roofing contractor serving the area since 1994, has seen all kinds of these problems and situations over the years. “Fortunately, homeowners insurance typically will cover damage due to winter storm hazards, but it’s important to take action as soon as possible to have a professional roofing contractor do a complete inspection.  Otherwise, further problems may occur due to new leaks and resulting water damage to the attic, ceilings and interior walls.”

If you’re a homeowner in the southwest Ohio area, and have any concerns about the condition of your roof as a result of extreme winter weather, call one of the most reputable Cincinnati roofers for a free roof inspection – Overhead Roofing – 513-844-8700, or visit their website at http://www.overheadroofing.com/storm-damage.

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