It’s never too early to prepare your home for winter weather. One of the most important parts of your home that you need to prepare is your roof. Problems that can be caused by winter weather conditions include roof leaks, roof damage, energy inefficiencies, and in extreme cases, roof collapse. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snowfall, it’s especially important to make sure your roof is ready for the winter weather. Here are some tips on how to get your roof ready for the winter season!
Winter Weather Conditions that May Harm Your House’s Roof Include:
– Snow Load: The amount of snow that accumulates on your roof can cause the roof to collapse.
– Ice Dams: When water from melting snow freezes, it can form an ice dam on your roof. This can cause leaks and damage to your shingles.
– Wind Chill: Winter roof damage can also be caused by wind. Strong winds can loosen, break, or damage shingles and other roofing materials, leading to roof leaks.
– Roof Ventilation: Poorly ventilated roofs can cause condensation, which can lead to mold and rot.
Tips on How to Get Your Roof Ready for Winter Weather Condition
Can cleaning your roof and gutters prevent damage?
You will want to be sure that your gutters are clean and clear. Clogged gutters can cause a lot of problems in the winter, including ice dams and roof leaks. Ice dams can form when snow and ice melt on your roof and then refreeze in your gutters. This can cause water to back up under your shingles.
Can trees cause damage to your roof?
Although it might not be the first thing you think of, trees near your house may cause roof problems during the winter by icicles falling from the branches, strong winds blowing debris or falling limbs. It’s important to inspect them before the winter weather sets in. Check for any branches hanging over your roof.
If you find there are branches too close to your house for comfort, trim them back to avoid damage from falling limbs, or call a local tree servicing company to come out to prevent any potential roof damage.
Can wind damage your roof during the winter?
Winter roof damage can also be caused by wind. Strong winds can loosen or break shingles and other roofing materials, or send tree limbs into your house and roof. If you live in an area that is prone to high winds, you may need to take extra precautions before winter weather sets in.
Protect your roof from the outside and inside
By ensuring your roof is cleaned before the winter weather hits, you can prevent future roof damage. This includes preventing any build-up of snow and ice on your roof. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snowfall you may need to have a plan for safely removing the snow from your roof.
Finally, you may prevent winter roof damage from the inside by having proper roofing insulation. Insulation protects your roof by keeping the heat in your home, which can prevent ice dams and other damage. Proper roofing insulation prevents condensation, which may lead to mold and rot in the spring. Another benefit of insulation is that it may improve heating efficiencies and help keep your home warm at a lower cost.
Find a Roofing Contractor & Get a Roof Inspection
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your roof for winter is to have it inspected by a professional. They will be able to identify any potential problems and make sure that your roof is in good condition before the snow starts falling. If any repairs need to be made, you can have them done before the winter weather hits. A couple of tips for finding the right roofing contractor include:
- Checking online reviews
- You can often tell how a business operates by reading reviews of its customers. Don’t forget to check reviews on Google, Angie’s list, or the Better Business Bureau
- Getting multiple roofing quotes
- When you get multiple roofing quotes, you can compare the prices and services to find the best deal.
- Asking for referrals from friends or family.
- Asking your friends and family how their roof replacement experience went can save you a lot of time, money, and stress.
Once you’ve found a reputable roofing contractor, they will be able to help you determine if you need to replace your roof or not before the winter hits.
Even in summer, you should start preparing your roof for the winter weather. By taking action now, you can avoid any problems that might occur when the snow and ice begin to fall. At Trout Roofing, we offer free roof inspections. You can also read reviews our customers have written!