If you live in a city that suffers from harsh and long winter months, you know that there are certain precautions to take to protect yourself. But as a homeowner, you’ll need to do a lot more than invest in a good winter coat and boots. Your residence needs plenty of security against the cold too, and this protection starts with the roof.
Winterizing your roof the right way will provide you with the peace of mind to calmly go through the next long winter safe and dry with your family at home. Fall might seem like a long way away, but the best time to get your house ready for the winter ahead is right now – while you have some free time on your hands over the summer. Use these four tips to get started!
1. Clean Out Your Gutters
The roof’s gutters are some of the most important elements of your structure. You should do your best to keep them clean at all times, especially during winter.
Over time, dirt and debris will collect in the gutters. This accumulation can cause clogs, damage to your pipes, and the destruction of your home’s exterior. To avoid these complications, make sure you invest in sturdy rain gutter filters from the get-go. These additions will direct rainwater away from your home and prevent blockage. And, they’ll be even more effective when you clean them regularly. A high-quality rain gutter filter will minimize unforeseen problems and repair costs in the long term.
2. Inspect Your Roof’s Shingles & Flashing
Shingles that are missing, damaged, or not installed accurately can be disastrous for your home during winter. Normal wear and tear are expected. But, if any shingles are loose or misplaced, you can experience leaks, clogs, and other problems. Examine your shingles to ensure they are secure and will last through a storm. Get any damaged ones replaced or repaired immediately.
Your roof’s flashing is also an important element to look at and maintain. It helps prevent leaks and should be sealed completely and securely.
3. Trim Surrounding Trees and Remove Debris
If your property has low-hanging and tall trees that lean very close to your roof, you are likely to find branches, leaves, and other foliage debris all over your roof and property. Sharp and strong branches can also pose a threat to your home during a storm. They can crash into your roof or your windows and cause harm to your property. Your homeowner’s insurance policy might not cover all types of damage, so it’s best to stay prepared and protected early on.
Keep branches short and away from your home. Once the leaves start falling, make sure to clear them away to avoid blockage and leaks. Any animal remains can also cause damage and infection, so check for rodents and squirrels on your roof as well.
4. Address Other Damages Timely
Hail damage affected more than seven million properties in the US in 2019. Thunderstorms, heavy rain and snowfall, and other winter conditions can cause severe damage to your home and your belongings, so you must conduct regular maintenance. Some problems to keep an eye out for include:
- Mold growth from moisture exposure
- Cracks and punctures
- A section that’s caving in
You’ll want to hire a professional to help you out, as attempting DIY work may result in sub-par results. Getting any necessary repairs out of the way early will ensure that your roof is ready to face whatever the colder months have to bring.
Your Roof Is Now Ready to Tackle the Fall & Winter
If you take care of these four elements of roof care, you can rest assured that you’ve done your best to safeguard your home and prepare for the colder months.
Keep an eye on your home’s covering and ask a professional to help you maintain it every time the season changes. Preparing for the fall and winter can be stress-free and manageable if you start now.
