5 Tips To Prepare Your Roof for Winter

5 min read

<.

1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

One of the best ways to safeguard your roof from snow and ice is to call a professional for a pre-season inspection. Certified professionals have the skills and experience to assess and repair problems with your roof so they don’t lead to bigger issues later on.

In a general inspection, experts should cover the following:

• Look for indications of wear
• Look for signs of warping or rotting on wood surfaces
• Check for broken shingles or nails coming loose
• Check for leaks and water stains or mold on the ceiling right under the roof
• See if flashing around the chimney is sealed
• Visually inspect structures like chimneys, vents, skylights, etc. for damage.

The best part about working with professionals is that they don’t simply perform these tasks and make the necessary repairs. They can also offer advice to help you get through the winter months with your roof in sound condition.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves and other debris can accumulate on your gutters and downspouts, forming a blockage and keeping water from flowing down freely. When this happens, water backup and roof leaks can quickly occur every time the snow melts on your roof but is not able to flow down.

It’s crucial that you hire a pro to check for broken shingles or nails coming loose, but it’s also essential to clean gutters and downspouts for debris buildup. You also want to ensure these structures are connected to your home. These ensure melting snow goes where it should – down from your roof and away from your property.

3. Trim Trees Near Your Home

If you have trees near your home, it’s best to trim any overhanging branches as they can pose a risk to your roof.

Trees and tree limbs may not be able to support the weight of snow and ice, especially during heavy snowfall, which can cause them to snap and fall on your house. Falling tree limbs can create cracks, damage shingles, or even punch holes into your roof.

Hiring a professional to trim trees back as necessary reduces the likelihood of these situations happening and, most importantly, helps you get through the season with your roof intact.

4. Insulate Your Attic

Proper attic insulation not only keeps your home warm but also prevents ice dams from developing.

Uneven insulation causes your home to lose heat continuously. As the warm air rises into your attic and escapes through the roof, it can warm the roof and cause snow and ice to melt on its upper portions – only for it to refreeze at the colder edges. The resulting ice dams can then lead to water backups and leaks.

Besides insulating your attic, you also want to inspect it for signs of water leakage or damage. Look out for water stains or mold and repair any leaks as soon as possible to avoid more extensive issues during winter.

5. Remove Snow Buildup Regularly

Once winter is in full swing, prevent heavy snow buildup by regularly removing it from your roof’s edges. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional to take on the job.

However you wish to proceed, the important thing is that you keep your roof from bearing the weight of built-up snow and ice. Heavy snow loads can put excessive stress on its structure, increase its risk of damage, or exacerbate existing problems.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late To Winterize Your Roof

Winter’s severe weather may be brutal on your home, but taking these proactive steps to winterize your roof promptly goes a long way in safeguarding your property from potential damage.

By scheduling a professional inspection, cleaning your gutters and downspouts, trimming nearby trees, and insulating your attic before the season begins, it’s possible to avoid major and expensive issues.

Still, despite your best efforts, water damage due to roof leaks and even frozen pipes may occur. If you find yourself dealing with ceiling or wall water damage this winter, team up with a restoration company ready to address your specific needs as soon as possible.

Dealing with water damage during the year’s colder months may be stressful, but experts can help you restore comfort and normalcy in your home as soon as possible.

Call Restoration 1 of Cary for Professional Water Damage Restoration

When it comes to addressing water damage due to roof leaks and frozen or burst pipes, rest assured that Restoration 1 of Cary is available 24/7 to assist you. Our local team is also trained and equipped to handle all kinds of water damage, no matter its source and extent.

Don’t let winter water damage disrupt your comfort and compromise your property. Call Restoration 1 of Cary at 847-558-1017, and let our experts make your home dry, safe, and comfortable again.