In late January this year, several U.S. cities in the northern region-including Akron, Ohio- experienced a bitter cold snap. The cold temperatures left many roofs ensconced in heavy snow and ice. Roofs are constructed by trusted Akron roofers to withstand snow and ice loads of a specific weight. However, structural failure may result when extreme winter temperatures bring down more snow and ice than expected.
Poor maintenance post-installation is one factor that can place roofs at risk for collapse. If you’re a homeowner who’s currently dealing with heavy snow and ice loads on the roof, it’s important to watch out for the following signs of an imminent collapse, as your roof may be carrying a heavier load than it was designed to bear:
Sagging support structures
If the support structures of the roof-particularly the ridge and the rafter-are sagging, it likely means that the roof is supporting more weight than it can handle. Loud creaking, popping, or cracking sounds caused by the support structures straining against the weight load is also a likely indicator of a roof that’s near collapse.
Bending door frames
Door frames bending out of shape are a strong indicator that the roof or ceiling is holding more weight than it was initially designed for. Homeowners who encounter difficulties when attempting to open or close doors will also have to prepare for a possible roof collapse. In extreme cases of heavy snow and ice loads, the door frames aren’t the only components that are affected, but the window frames too.
Severe roof leaks
Minor leaks are to be expected during the winter season for aged roofs, as roofing materials are susceptible to normal wear and tear. However, if the leaks have reached the extreme level where water from melted snow pours like rainwater into the property, it definitely means that there’s a bigger problem than normal wear and tear. The excess water can weaken support structures at a faster rate, leaving the roof more vulnerable to collapse.
When any of these aforementioned signs become apparent, the occupants must evacuate the premises immediately and call 911 to ensure their safety. Afterwards, they must contact a Canton roofing professional, like D&M Roofing, to inspect the roofing. The roofers will do a thorough inspection of the roofing, and decide on the most ideal plan of action to restore the failing roof.
