How to prevent ice damage to a roof

Can ice crack roof tiles?

During winter, freezing temperatures can cause several roof problems. We look at how to prevent ice damage to a roof and the steps you can take to protect this part of your home. Whether it’s ice, snow, sleet or heavy rain that has suddenly frozen, it’s important to prepare for wintry weather. Keeping your roof clean will help to protect it from extreme conditions.

One major issue is the impact of snowfall on the weight load of the roof, especially weaker roofs. Another common problem in cold weather is a process known as ‘freeze-thaw’. This is where pooling rainwater freezes and expands, putting pressure on specific areas of the roof. If the roof tiles have hairline cracks, frozen water can get inside. Over time, ice and heavy snow could cause deterioration and weaken the structural integrity of your roof.

A lesser-known issue is the effect of organic matter growing across a roof. When moss, lichen and algae are left to grow unchecked, these micro roots nestle in between the roof tiles. In icy conditions, this organic matter can freeze and expand, causing the surrounding tiles to crack. The movement of moss in between roof tiles can be particularly damaging, as it can expand quickly in frosty weather. It’s important to remove micro roots from your roof.

Carefully check your roof

Firstly, and most importantly, never inspect a roof at height unless it’s safe to do so. At ground level, look up at your roofline to see if any large debris has become lodged. If possible, remove any fallen leaves, twigs and branches. This type of debris will add to the roof weight load in icy or snowy conditions. Depending on the age and integrity of your roof, the pressure could cause weaker areas to collapse.

If it is safe to do so, keep guttering clear and make sure your downpipes are not blocked. When these areas pool with water and then freeze, this can result in damage, which could include tiles along your roofline. Also, once any snow or ice has melted, this will enable water to flow correctly and not spill over onto other areas of your roof.

Look out for any moss, algae and lichen, which can appear like blotches on your roof tiles. Don’t allow this organic matter to grow unchecked, as micro roots will settle between your tiles and could cause these to crack. Make sure your roof stays clean and protected with an organic roof treatment that is less harmful to the environment.

Protecting your roof in winter

We have a simple approach to help you protect your roof:

• Using specialist equipment and CAT ladders, we will inspect your roof and check for any missing roof tiles. If required, we can source matching tiles for clay roofs and replace these for you. This includes roof tiles for historic and listed buildings.
• An anti-fungal treatment is then applied to the roof to kill any organic matter. We use RENOTEC® as this is based on an organic formula, free from any toxic alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEO). This fungicidal wash enables us to gently clean your roof without the use of damaging tools or high-pressure power jets.
• Lastly, we apply two coats of the RENOTEC® Roof Coating. This water repellent coating also protects against frost damage and salt efflorescence caused by snow. This durable roof coating will prevent the regrowth of micro roots, extend the lifespan of your roof tiles, and it comes with a 10-year guarantee.

Professional roof cleaners

If you haven’t cleaned your roof for many years, it’s worth considering a roof clean during winter. This will also give you the chance to check for any damaged roof tiles. It’s important to make sure that the roof’s structural integrity hasn’t been compromised.

Using a professional roof cleaning company to carry out your clean will give you peace of mind that your roof won’t be damaged. Our team are trained in health and safety, and as we use specialist equipment, we will never step onto your roof tiles.