Many homeowners are doing this wrong โ The consequences can be catastrophic
Homeowners need to ensure proper snow management to prevent severe water damage as melting snow can lead to excessive moisture problems.
Many homeowners in Finland are advised to manage their rooftops effectively during winter and spring, particularly concerning the weight of snow and the melting process. While concerns about the snow load during winter are often unnecessary due to modern roofing structures designed to withstand local snow loads, issues can arise in the spring. If there are leaks, improperly functioning gutters, or snow accumulation against the house's foundation, problems can develop that damage the property.
The main tool for homeowners during winter should be snow retention systems rather than shovels. According to Okko Partanen from Vesivek, these systems help regulate the melting of snow on rooftops, directing meltwater into the gutters and drainage systems. This management ensures that moisture does not accumulate near the foundation, which could harm the structural integrity by increasing the moisture levels significantly.
If snow falling from the roof melts beside the foundation, it can contribute to an additional moisture burden of about 20,000 liters, leading to potential serious structural problems for the house. This awareness is crucial for homeowners to prevent costly damage and maintain their properties in good condition throughout the melting season.