Ice storms, freeze-thaw cycles and ice dams all test an Ozarks roof, and a complete roof system with the right membrane, ventilation and gutters is what keeps water out. Here is what each one does and how a roof is built to handle it.
What is an ice dam?
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that builds up along the eaves of a roof. It forms when heat escapes into the attic, melts snow on the upper roof, and the meltwater refreezes at the cold edge. The ice then blocks the water behind it, and that water can work its way under shingles and into the home.
Do ice dams happen in the Ozarks?
They are less common than in northern states, but our winters swing between freezing and thawing, and a snowfall followed by cold nights is all it takes. That freeze-thaw cycle is hard on every roof edge, valley and flashing detail.
What do ice storms do to a roof?
An ice storm coats the roof, gutters and trees with weight. Heavy ice can pull on gutters and bring down limbs, and the freeze-thaw that follows can stress older roofing and flashing. A well-built roof and sturdy gutters are the defense.
How is a Big Chief roof built to handle it?
Every Thunderhead roof includes ice-and-water membrane at eaves, valleys and penetrations, new edge metal and flashing, and balanced ventilation. The membrane seals the most exposed places, and ventilation helps keep the roof deck evenly cold so melting and refreezing are less likely. See everything that is always included.
What do gutters have to do with it?
Gutters sized for Ozarks downpours also carry meltwater away from the roofline. Our Headwaters gutter system uses 6-inch seamless gutters with 3×4 downspouts, with hidden hangers screwed into the fascia.
What should I do next?
Book a Free Estimate. We will check your roof edges, valleys, flashing and attic ventilation, and show you what is good, what to watch and what to fix.