Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to start preparing your roof for the cold weather ahead. While you can do a lot of things to help protect your home from the elements, there are some things you should be doing before the first snowfall hits. If you don’t take care of these issues now, they could lead to costly repairs later on.
Check Your Roofline
The first step you should take before beginning work on your roof is to check out the shape of your roofline. If it dips down, curves, or sags, there could be underlying problems. Sagging roofs can be caused by structural issues or by a saturated rooftop deck. In the winter months, roofs are exposed to heavier rains and snowfalls that can stress the roof and worsen sagging. This often leads to a cave-in and requires emergency roof repairs.
Check The Attic For Signs Of Water Damage
If you notice any signs of moisture around your home, it might mean that your roof needs some attention. A leaking roof could lead to serious problems like mold growth, rot, and even structural issues. To prevent major water damage, make sure to check out your roofing system regularly and take action immediately if you find anything suspicious.
Remove Debris
After inspecting your roof for signs of damage, it’s time to take action. Leaves, twigs, and branches are likely to have fallen onto your roof, but if those items remain there throughout the winter months, they could cause serious problems for your home. If you see piles of debris on your roof, use a leaf blower or rake to remove it. Then, clean up the area around your house to prevent future accumulation of debris.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Gutters collect leaves, sticks, and other items that fall onto your roof. They help keep your home dry by allowing water to run off into the ground rather than pooling up under your eaves. However, clogged gutters can cause serious problems, including leaks and rotting wood. To avoid these issues, make sure you clean out your gutters once a year.
Trim Low Hanging Branches
Winterizing your roof also involves prepping the trees around your house. These trees could pose a threat to your roof if they fall during a heavy windstorm. If you notice branches hanging low near your roof, trimming or removing them should prevent those branches from breaking off and landing on your home.
If the branches extend over your rooftop, it may be risky for you to do the work yourself. Call a professional for assistance. They will use specialized equipment to safely cut away the branches without damaging your property.
Examine Your Roof Shingles
Shingles are an important part of your roofing system because they provide protection against the elements. However, shingle deterioration is common in the wintertime. As temperatures drop, the asphalt coating on your shingles becomes brittle and breaks apart. When this happens, the shingles lose their ability to withstand the harsh conditions outside. It’s best to inspect your shingles before and after winter to ensure that they are still performing as expected.
Need a Roof Inspection?
When you partner with Tristate Roofing & Remodeling, we’ll help you get peace of mind and ensure your roof is ready for winter. Contact us today to get started!
