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Preventative roof maintenance will save you money in the long run no matter how you look at it. We’re sure you’ve heard that old adage, ‘If you take care of it, it will last.’
There are a number of steps you can take to protect your roof for the upcoming winter. If you’re a first time homeowner, don’t skip over this!
Inspect Your Roof
If you feel confident that you can safely inspect your roof you should do so. If you don’t, feel free to call your local roofing contractor to inspect the roof for you.
Look for any missing shingles, torn shingles, bare roof decking and any weak spots. Check around your flashing to make sure there aren't any spots that are loose or sticking up. If you do run into any of these they will affect your home during winter.
Check Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clear your gutter system regularly to clear them of any debris, leaves or twigs. Make sure to check them and clear them at the end of fall to make sure they are as clear as possible.
Keeping your gutters clear for optimal water flow will prevent ice dams which will damage your roof and gutters if left.
Trim Nearby Tree Limbs
By trimming limbs that overhang your roof, you’ll decrease the likelihood of a potential fall from heavy snow or strong winds. Trimming back tree limbs will reduce the amount of leaves and debris that fall into your gutter system that could block drainage during thawing. If your gutters are blocked by debris this will also cause an ice-dam putting major strain on your gutter system and your roof. Think about having the limbs trimmed back enough for a 6 foot gap.
Proper Ventilation
If you have noticed moisture in your attic then it is not properly ventilated. If you’re unsure your local roofing contractor will be able to inspect your attic and roof to ensure proper ventilation and to recommend any repairs. Warm air put out by your furnace rises to the very top of your attic and if it cannot escape properly this will cause moisture accumulation which then results in possible ice-dams and mold growth.
Remove Excess Snow
To help your roof out, set it up for success. Invest in a long handle roof rake to clear snow from the edges of your roof, gently. You could also utilize your leaf blower if you do not have a roof rake. Flat roofs are more susceptible to roof collapse since it all sits right on top. You could always contact your local roofers to see if they will clear the snow for you or put you in touch with local snow removal.
Conclusion
There are so many ways that you can help yourself out in the long run to avoid as much winter damage as possible. It’s always a good idea to leave any repairs to experts so that you are getting the most out of your roof and it will last longer for years to come