Preparing Your Roof For Winter

Preparing Your Roof For Winter

4 Ways To Prepare Your Roof For Winter

Your roof is your home's first line of defense in severe weather. Preparing your roof for winter will help protect your roof from further damage down the road. Following a few simple and preventive maintenance steps will ensure that your roof will keep the cold weather out and the warmth in.

Before we begin, remember that getting up on a roof can be dangerous. A roofing professional is trained to work on roofs, has the right equipment, and knows what to look for. If you do decide to work on your roof, please take all the necessary steps to be safe. Websites such as www.gaf.com/roofing/residential/diy/learn_roofing_safety have the information you need to be safe before getting on a roof.

1. CLEARING DEBRIS
Debris such as leaves, branches, pine needles and other small debris need to be cleared from your roof. These items can rot and will break down roofing material and inhibit water flow. Use a broom or a blower to clean debris. Rakes will harm your shingles. Pay attention to the valleys to keep them clear of small debris which will also help with water flow. If you find algae, moss, or mold growing on your roof, you may want to have this professionally treated and cleaned to prevent further growth. Companies such as southeastpressurecleaning.com advertise roof cleaning in this area.

2. CLEANING GUTTERS
Clearing your gutters of leaves and debris will keep water from backing up and damaging your roof, siding, or trim. This will also ensure that the weight from the backup of leaves and debris will not cause your gutters and downspouts to pull away from your anchors and collapse. Keep your gutters clear during the fall and after all the leaves are down, do a final cleaning and inspection. Installing gutter screens or guards will prevent leaves and debris from collecting in your gutters. Another preventative measure is to add extensions to your downspouts to help keep water away from your foundation.

3. INSPECTION
After your roof and gutters are cleared of debris, check your roof for loose or missing shingles or shingles with curled or frayed edges. This is the time to have them repaired or replaced. Inspect the flashing around skylights, vents, pipes or any other projections to make sure they are properly sealed.

4. ATTIC, INSULATION, AND VENTILATION
A properly insulated and ventilated attic is extremely important for the long-term health of your roof. Vents should be located at the soffits, ridges and gables to ensure that hot air will not condense causing moisture damage and possible rot or mold to form on roof supports.
Inspect your attic for wet areas, especially the under-roofing and the insulation. Check your insulation's volume for uniformity and signs of any disturbance. Inspect all areas of your attic for signs of animal activity or nests. Make sure all attic vents and fans are working properly.

​Preparing your roof for winter is a big step in preventing small problems from becoming big problems. By following these simple maintenance steps, you can boost the lifespan of your roof.

Joye Roofing offers a free roof inspection. Their professionals will inspect your roof and give you an honest assessment free of charge. Check out their 5 star rating on Facebook and Google My Business.

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