Why Does Snow Melt Faster on Some Roofs?

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Have you ever driven through a neighborhood and noticed snow on some roofs but not others? The temperature outside is the same for all the homes. The difference usually comes down to how much attic insulation each property has. Here’s what to look for to ensure your own home is adequately insulated. 

Why Snow Melts Faster on Certain Roofs

Uneven melting on roofs can be due to sunlight exposure. In this case, you’ll notice homes facing the sun will have less snow cover, but it may still build up in corners or shadowy areas like behind chimneys. 

Alternatively, it could be due to the insulation. Inside homes, furnaces should be sized to heat all living spaces. Insulation on the attic floor should prevent this warmth from traveling upwards into this space. Additional insulation should keep warmth from leaking from the attic out the roof. If there isn’t enough padding, that heat will warm your shingles, causing the snow on top of your house to melt. 

If a lot of snow melts quickly, some of it may even freeze back into ice before it can be safely directed off the roof through the downspouts. This is how ice dams are formed. They can weigh down eaves and gutters, leading to drainage issues that could harm your shingles, siding, or foundation. 

How to Check Your Insulation

A few hours after a light snowfall, go outside and check your roof. If there’s an even layer covering the entire surface, your insulation is likely doing its job. If most of it has melted, but other homes on your street still have snow cover, that could indicate insufficient insulation throughout the attic. Splotchy or uneven snow cover often means that the insulation in certain areas has been compromised. For example, a roof leak might have dampened part of the material so that it degraded or grew mold. Replacing or re-installing attic insulation can protect your roof and make your home more energy-efficient. 

If you’re ready to have your attic insulation checked, contact Koala Insulation of Michiana. The contractors have over 15 years of experience serving homeowners throughout Michiana, MI, and Mishawaka, IN. They provide a full range of services—from removing old insulation to installing it in attics, garages, and basements. To request a quote, contact the Michigan location online or by calling (269) 266-3689. For the Indiana location, go online or call (574) 544-6433.