Winter is rapidly approaching which means it’s time for roof winterization. But what does that mean, what does it involve, and why does it matter? Winter weather can damage your roof if proper steps are not taken prior to winter storms and snow. Winterizing your roof involves several different chores to prevent ice dams, additional weight, falling limbs, and other issues that can damage your roof.
Ensure Gutters are Clean
While cleaning gutters can be a taxing chore, it is a vital step in preparing your roof for winter conditions. Remove any debris from the gutters prior to winter and continue to check them periodically to ensure there is no ice forming.
Don’t Let Snow Accumulate
While snow on the roof offers a quaint holiday feel, it can cause damage to your roof. Accumulating snow adds additional strain to your roof, potentially leading to damage. This can add additional pressure to weak spots in your roof to cave in. Beyond the extra weight, snow can contribute to ice dams as it melts. The melting and freezing on the roof are problematic as the melting snow can fill the cracks in the roof, then freeze and expand potentially leading to leaks.
When removing snow from your roof, take extra precautions to avoid slipping. If this isn’t feasible, consider hiring a roof repair service to remove the snow.
Trim Back Landscaping
Another critical step to winterizing your roof is trimming back trees and other overhanging landscaping. Snow and ice can build up on these low-hanging branches near your roof, causing the limbs to snap and land on your roof. By trimming these branches, you keep debris off the roof while also eliminating areas where moisture can accumulate, freeze or rot.
Perform Sight Checks
Prior to winter weather, check your roof for damaged, loose, and missing shingles. After winter storms, check your roof to ensure no damage has occurred. If you notice any other issues, be sure to contact a roofing professional immediately.
While it may not seem like a major issue, missing or damaged shingles can be a problem during winter. Even just a few missing shingles can lead to cracks or water damage in your home. Be sure to look for any shingles that are curled, cracked or missing before winter starts. In some instances, you might be able to repair minor damage by yourself. However, if you notice any major issues, consider calling a roof repair service to get your roof in shape for the season.
Check the Attic for Signs of Water Damage
Before winter arrives, check your attic for signs of water damage including dampness or water stains. These signs can indicate existing leaks which should be addressed prior to winter weather. Check for discolored areas on the roof, insulation, and attic floor. If you notice stains or other issues, try to identify the source of the leak so it can quickly be repaired.
Ensure Attic Vents are Clear
During winter, ice can accumulate anywhere on your roof, including the vents that prevent moisture from getting into the attic. Moisture and leaks building up in your attic can damage your home and roof, so ensuring there is proper ventilation is paramount to prevent costly repairs.
Ensure Insulation is Sufficient to Prevent Ice Dams
Updating the insulation is a great step for winterizing your roof. Proper insulation between the living space in your home and roof can help avoid warping due to temperature fluxes both inside and out.
Look for Signs of Animals
Like humans during the cold season, animals seek out warmth too. Fall and winter are important times to check for animals inside your home. In some cases, animals may have built themselves and entrance to your home and may already be inside. If animals are already in your home and winter weather occurs, they will be trapped inside leading to even bigger problems. If you notice signs of animals in your home, quickly contact a pest removal service and get the issue handled as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Repair the Chimney Flashing
Chimney flashing is the metal material used to seal joints and prevent water from entering your home. When checking the flashing, inspect the vents, skylights, chimneys and any other roof problem spots. In the case of damaged flashing, ensure that you quickly repair or replace it. Signs of damage include rust, cracks, or gaps. If the flashing repair is beyond your abilities, contact a roof repair service and they’ll get you up to speed.
Check for Signs of Sagging
A sagging roof is a major concern, especially during winter. To check for sagging, walk around your home and inspect the roof from different angles. If you notice sagging, it may be indicative of water damage or structural issues. Sagging areas can deteriorate over the winter due to additional weight from snow and ice. If you happen to notice this, call a roofing professional as soon as possible so the issue can be addressed before winter rolls in.
Revisit Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Another great winterizing preparation step is rereading your homeowner’s insurance policy. In case of damage, understanding your insurance policy can help you navigate any repairs necessary due to winter damage. Keep track of property maintenance done on your roof before winter. Most policies will cover weather-related damage, but a paper trail is a great way to combat any pushback you might experience.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
While conducting your own inspection is an excellent roof winterization step, hiring a roof inspection service to check as well may offer some additional assurance that all issues are handled prior to winter. Consider calling a roof repair contractor to look before any rough weather rolls in.
If you need a little extra help winterizing your roof for winter, or just want an additional roof inspection, look no further. Capital Exteriors and Renovations have roofing experts that are ready to assist. Our roofing specialists offer roofing repair, reroofing, and work with various types of roofing systems. With our fast and efficient service and quality materials, your roof will be in great shape for the incoming season. Give us a call at 704-618-0526 or fill out our contact form and we will be in touch shortly.