Can Asphalt Shingles Handle Snow And Ice?
Are Your Asphalt Shingles Able To Withstand
Hanover, NH’s Harsh Winter Months?
Protect Your Hanover Home With From Snow
And Ice Damage With Reliable Solutions
Can an asphalt shingle roof in Hanover, NH handle New England’s harsh winter months?
With temperatures plummeting below freezing, snowfall measuring in feet rather than inches, and ice storms lasting for days, your roof is your home’s first line of defense.
Asphalt shingles have long been trusted to protect homes throughout Grafton County, earning their reputation through decades of reliable performance. Their layered construction and waterproof properties make them a popular choice for our challenging climate.
Yet, like any building material facing extreme conditions, they require proper care and attention to perform at their best during our demanding winters.
While a properly installed and maintained asphalt shingle roof can excel in winter conditions, understanding its capabilities – and limitations – is crucial for protecting your home.
Asphalt Shingles During Winter: The Basics
Modern asphalt shingles, specifically architectural or laminated shingles, are designed to stand strong during winter.
Architectural shingles are becoming a popular option in Hanover, NH. These shingles are manufactured with a fiberglass base and have multiple layers of weatherproof coating. Its ceramic granules provide crucial protection against UV rays and precipitation as well.
High-quality asphalt shingles can hold a large amount of weight, but they have to be properly composed and installed to perform at their best. When professionally installed, each shingle creates a watertight shield that protects your roof against moisture from ice and snow.
Throughout winter, we see cold temperatures fluctuate, sometimes taking dramatic swings between daytime and nighttime. Premium asphalt shingles are designed to maintain their flexibility, even when temperatures go below 0, and can expand and contract without cracking.
Believe it or not, even with Grafton County’s challenging winters, today’s asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years.
Common Winter Challenges For Hanover, NH Roofs
In Hanover, New Hampshire, winter presents its own set of challenges to our homes. But, the good news is, that with proper installation and regular care, an asphalt shingle roof can effectively protect your home against the following winter weather.
Ice Dams
When heat escapes your home and melts snow on your roof to cause water to run down and refreeze, ice dams are formed.
Ice dams can force water under your shingles, potentially leading to damage if left unchecked.
Snow Accumulation
Hanover, NH typically receives large amounts of snow each year, often from heavy storms that dump feet of snow at once.
Properly installed asphalt shingles can handle this weight. However, uneven snow distribution or excessive buildup can stress your roof structure. This is especially true for older homes.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Temperature fluctuations throughout winter can cause numerous freeze-thaw cycles. This allows water to seep into tiny cracks or gaps, expand as it freezes, and create larger openings over time.
Even the most well-maintained roofs can be impacted by freeze-thaw cycles, which makes regular inspections crucial.
Wind-Driven Snow
Winter storms combine heavy snow and strong wind, especially in exposed areas like Grafton County.
High winds can force snow under the shingles that are not properly sealed, which can lead to moisture issues in your attic. Professional installation with proper underlayment is essential for preventing this issue.
Condensation Issues
In poorly ventilated roofs, heated interiors and cold external temperatures create condensation in attic spaces.
The moisture can degrade shingles from underneath, making it the perfect condition for mold to grow.
How Asphalt Shingles Can Protect Your Home
Modern asphalt shingles represent multiple decades of innovation, offering layers of protection for homes throughout New Hampshire. Some ways asphalt shingles protect your home include:
- Enhanced insulation properties
- Waterproof barrier system
- Impact resistance
- UV protection
In addition to the various benefits asphalt shingles have to offer, Jancewicz & Son has learned that regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life cycle of your asphalt roof.
Regularly cleaning your gutters, ensuring you have a proper ventilation system, and even paying close attention to any damage on your roof can make all the difference in keeping it safe during the winter.
For over 90 years, Jancewicz & Son has been working closely with families in Hanover, NH and throughout Grafton County. Our team is ready to work year-round, ensuring that no matter when you need us, we are available to help fortify your roof even in the coldest of temperatures.
We are dedicated to finding honest and reliable solutions for our neighbors. For a free estimate, contact Jancewicz & Son today at 800-281-3585.