Failing to deal with winter roof damage can be a long-lasting mistake. 62{9a12bfc896f8896babb4b5f9dfebf9d9aff59856145548edc628a84f129e4db6} of homeowners felt the financial or physical consequences the next year.
Only a few of them took on any kind of preventative maintenance to keep it from happening again. 44-47{9a12bfc896f8896babb4b5f9dfebf9d9aff59856145548edc628a84f129e4db6} of those in the West and South did. So did 26{9a12bfc896f8896babb4b5f9dfebf9d9aff59856145548edc628a84f129e4db6} of Midwesterners and 30{9a12bfc896f8896babb4b5f9dfebf9d9aff59856145548edc628a84f129e4db6} of Northeasterners.
Read our roof care guide to learn how to help it last through the winter season.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Cleaning your cutters is an important part of winter roof care. It prevents ice damming and leaks.
A garden hose extension can clean moderately clogged gutters. Compacted clogs may require a pressure washer.
Don’t forget to clean the downspout as well by spraying in its direction. You may need a plumber’s snake for heavy clogs.
Prepare For and Remove Snow
Preparing for snow requires three steps:
- Inspection
- Ventilation
- Professional help
Inspect your roof every year. This lets you see any leaks or spots you may need to repair.
Keep your attic ventilated to prevent ice dams. Make sure it lets cool air enter and hot air escape.
Bringing in professional roofing services helps clear heavy snow that could cause structural damage. Signs that you need this include cracks or bending in the attic rafters, drywall, or plaster.
Check for Leaks
Winter weather such as snow and hail is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. It can cause severe damage but leaves several signs.
Look for:
- Stains on the walls or ceilings
- Damaged flashing
- Drooping ceilings
Examine the Shingles
Shingles are one of the first places you’ll see leak damage from wind, rain, or snow. They’ll get hit the heaviest during the winter.
Look for signs of:
- Loosening
- Buckling
- Warping
You may be able to replace a few damaged shingles. Otherwise, you may need full roof repair from a professional.
Handle Nearby Trees
Think about which trees on your property have heavy limbs or branches that fall off. They’re also an entryway for animals.
Keeping them trimmed is important for your entire home, but it’s also an essential part of roof care.
Look at Your Insulation
Checking your insulation is a form of preventative maintenance that you can do all year. It’s most important during winter because of the increased risk of water damage.
Wet insulation increases your heating bills and creates a spot for mold and mildew to grow. Make sure it’s dry and that there are no leaks around it.
Get Professional Repair and Inspections
Spotting problems early before the snow and ice make them a serious issue saves you time and money. Getting problems fixed by a professional keeps the roof over your head safe.
Make sure you know your roof’s age and the last time you had it maintained. This makes it easier for them to know what you need
Where to Get Help with Roof Care
Having a roof over your head is never more important than in the winter. That’s why you need to take a few essential roof care steps.
Clean your gutters. Remove snow. Take care of leaks. Examine your shingles. Cut down trees that could fall. Make sure that you have proper insulation. Get professional help.
Detailed Roofing & Construction offers roofing replacement, repair, and installation. Get a quote today.