How To Prepare Your Roof for Winter
How To Prepare Your Roof for Winter: 5 of the Best Tips
Winter will be here before we know it! Properly taking care of your roof and preparing for the cold, snowy months is key if you want to protect your roof, home, and family from potential damage and danger. Follow our five essential tips to prepare your home for winter, and you’ll enjoy the season with no worries.
5 Things To Do To Prepare Your Roof for Winter
Your roof is the barrier between your home and the harsh winter elements. Take care of your property and protect your family from roof damage with these five helpful tips!
1. Clean Your Gutters
A gutter’s primary purpose is to lead rainwater and melted snow down and away from your home. When your gutters are clogged and filled with debris (branches, leaves, twigs, etc.), many problems can occur – especially during the winter months. You could face water pooling on your roof, ice dam formation, water damage, leaks, and more.
If you clean your gutters regularly (and before winter), you can avoid these problems. We recommend that you inspect and clean out your gutters at least twice a year, one time always before the winter months start.
With proper safety precautions, you can do this yourself, or you can hire a professional to do so. Remove any debris and check for any clogs in the downspout. You should also ensure that the gutters are secure and that there are no loose screws or hardware.
2. Trim Low-Hanging Branches Near Your Home
Trees with low-hanging branches near your roof are always a potential danger, especially during the snowy season. Not only can they contribute to debris buildup in gutters (which can lead to ice dams), but they can also break under the weight of snow and fall onto your roof, causing significant damage.
Removing any low-hanging branches close to your roof is best before winter. You can also check for dead trees that are likely to break and fall during a storm. A professional arborist can help with this job if you don’t have any experience.
3. Check Roof Shingles for Damage
Shingles add style to your home, but they also protect your roof from unpredictable weather elements. Over time, shingles can experience wear and tear, leading to issues with your roof. If you fail to replace damaged shingles, it can lead to roof leaks or even a complete roof replacement.
Before winter begins, check your roof for loose or missing shingles. You’ll notice that your shingles are damaged if they lose their granules, curl up, or debris gets lodged under the shingles. If you need assistance, call your roofer, and they’ll make sure your home is in the best condition for the snowy season.
4. Inspect Attic for Signs of Damage
Did you know that in many cases, the first sign of a leaky roof can be found in the attic? Take a look and check for water spots on the wall, wet roof decking, or puddles of water on the attic floor. If you find any signs of water damage, schedule a professional roof inspection before the winter storms arrive.
In addition to roof leaks, the attic can lead to more property damage if it isn’t adequately insulated. Without insulation, the warm air from your home will escape, and cold air will come in. This can cause increases in your utility bills and cause you discomfort during the colder months. Assess your attic and ensure that it has the proper insulation. If this isn’t your forte, a roofing professional can help.
5. Assess Your Roof Flashing
Roof flashing is a flat, thin piece of metal that helps waterproof the perimeter of your roofing system. It’s used to direct water away from your home and is one of the most essential components in preventing roof leaks and damage.
Below-freezing temperates, strong storm winds, and rain can cause your roof flashing to tear, loosen up, or erode over time. To prevent roof leaks during winter and further damage, inspect all of your roof’s flashing and make sure that everything is in working order. It’s best to call in a professional to ensure that everything is sealed correctly and can replace any loose materials.
It’s Time To Prepare Your Roof for Winter
Do you need to improve your roof before the winter season arrives? Standard Zeeland Roofing & Siding is here to help! Contact us for any roofing inquiry, and we’ll help you navigate the process. We want to make sure you enjoy a cozy winter season, so give us a call today!