What You Need To Know About Winter-Proofing Your Roof

When you own your home, you want to do everything you can to prepare it for extreme weather conditions that can lead to damage. When winter comes, your roof can take a beating if you haven't taken the necessary steps to protect it from the elements. The information provided below will educate you on some of the steps you should take to winter-proof your roof.

Understand the damage winter weather can cause

The first step to protecting your roof from damages that winter weather can bring is to learn where your roofs weaknesses are. Then, you can work on strengthening those weaknesses.

If you have a lower-quality roof that's getting old in age, then you should have a professional roofing contractor come out to inspect the whole thing. In some cases, it may be a good idea to have your roof replaced before winter hits.

Your rain gutters can pose other problems if they aren't in good shape or if they are full of leaves and other debris. They will collect water in the rain and it won't have anywhere to go. This puts more stress on the gutters and it can lead to mold growth and roof rot. In the snow, the gutters can become so weighed down that they break.  

The areas around skylights, chimneys and vents tend to be some of the weakest areas on the roof. They are more susceptible to broken shingles, cracks and other problems that can become big issues in storms. These problems can lead to bad leaks developing that can cause water damage to your home.

Checking for problems

You can check your gutters from the ground by taping a small mirror on the end of a broom stick. Walk around the outside of the house with the mirror aimed at the gutters and look for areas that need to be cleaned out.

If you are able to safely get on the roof, you want to look for shingles that are lifting up, cracked or missing. You should also pay close attention to the areas around bends, such as near the chimney. Look for cracks, gaps or any type of separations.

Check for leaks from the inside of the house by inspecting the ceiling for any areas of sagging or changes in the color.

Preparing your roof for winter weather

Any parts of the gutter that are filled with debris should be cleaned out completely. Damaged shingles should either be straightened out and nailed back into place or replaced completely. Missing shingles need to be immediately replaced. Trees that hang near the roof should be cut back so they don't fall on the roof and cause it damage. If you aren't able to get shingles repaired before a storm comes in, then you should have a tarp secured to the roof in that area before it starts to rain.  

By taking the advice above, you can prevent more damage to your roof and home when the winter weather comes in. A professional roofer like one from Commercial Roofing by Dave Merkley Roofing can help you to take care of your roof by giving it an inspection, pinpointing weaknesses and taking care of them for you.

Share