No one wants to deal with a leaky roof in the middle of winter. Be proactive and take a look at the following tips to winterize your roof before you’re caught off guard by an icy deluge.
Do I Need to Winterize My Roof?
So, you may be thinking do I need to prepare my roof for winter? It’s tough on roofs during this time of year, as the frigid temperatures can cause extensive damage. For example, in areas where there is frequently a lot of snowfall and ice accumulation, it can lead to leaks developing over time. Furthermore, if not taken care of properly mold or mildew could begin growing in your attic – costing you thousands down the line. Surprisingly though, even people who live in relatively warmer climates benefit from preparing their roof beforehand. This is because heavy rains or high winds are still capable damaging your rooftop; however by taking some preventative measures ahead of time you save yourself a significant amount money and hassle further down the road.
7 Tips For Winterizing Your Roof
1. Check Your Gutters
Clogged gutters are not effective in transporting ice and snowmelt away from your roof. If there is leaves and debris build-up inside the gutters, rainwater can accumulate in the gutter which then freezes over time. This process can damage shingles and other roofing materials as water seeps through cracks.
2. Prune any overhanging branches.
Winter weather can be incredibly dangerous for any trees hanging over your roof. The added weight of the snow and ice can cause limbs to break, which could potentially damage your roof or even hurt someone if they were to fall. To avoid this issue altogether, trim back tree branches so that they don’t hang over the edge of your roof—a general rule of thumb is that all foliage should be at least 3 feet away from the edge. If you have high branches or a steep pitch on your roof, it’s best to call in a professional tree trimmer who will completed the job safely.
3. Visually Inspect the Roof for Damage
Inspect your roof for any possible damage to shingles, vents, flashing, and other materials. If you find some form of damage, contact a local roofing professional for a more in-depth inspection and additional information on the repairs that need to be done.
4. Inspect Your Attic
Adequate attic insulation and ventilation is key to having a healthy roof during winter. Without these, you increase your chance of developing ice dams, which can lead to roof damage or moisture and condensation inside the attic that results in mold, mildew, and rot. If you notice any signs of these issues, consult with a local roofing or attic professional as soon as possible.
5. Check for Pest Damage
Pests and animals are not the only things that can damage your roof. Weather is another hazard that you must be weary of. If you spot any pest damage, call a local exterminator or wildlife worker to take care of the problem animal and contact your roofer for an inspection immediately.
6. Check Your Chimney
As you use your chimney more frequently in the winter, it’s important to make sure that it is well-maintained. A hallmark of a good chimney is proper flashing surrounding the structure. If you notice any gaps, tears, or bends in the flashing on your roof, be sure to call your local roofing company for assistance.
7. Plan for Snow Removal
If you’ve followed all the steps above, congratulations on taking care of your roof this winter! But there’s one more thing you need to do: Once it starts snowing regularly, you should remove the snow from your roof.
If you don’t shovel the snow and ice off of your roof, it could cause ice dams. These result in costly repairs to both your roof and any other damage the falling icicles might incur. A local roofer can quickly and safely remove the snow and ice, so you’re able to stay comfortable indoors.
Need Professional Help With Your Roof?
Fill out our contact form or give us a call today!