How do I prepare my roof for winter? With winter being right around the corner, you are probably already noticing subtle signs. There are many things you can do to prepare for winter, but one of them must be your roof. It keeps you and your family safe by providing a barrier against harsh winter weather. The best way to ensure that your roof is prepared is by inspecting it to ensure there are no problems.
Preparing Your Roof for Winter
What are ways to prepare my roof for winter? Here are several things you can do.
Inspect the Roofline
The first thing you can start off by doing is checking your roofline. Your roofline should not show any indicators of curving, sagging, or dipping. It should be completely straight. If you do notice any issues, you should investigate them further. For example, a roofline that is sagging may be an issue with the framing.
Roofs are exposed to many harsh elements during winter which can put additional stress on your roof and worsen problems that are already present. Don’t wait until further damage has occurred — have it inspected right away.
Inspect Chimney Flashing
Don’t forget to check your chimney flashing for any potential leaks. The chimney flashing is a strip of metal that keeps the roof and intersection of the chimney sealed. This is also one of the main areas for a leak to occur. It is also very easy to mistake your leaky flashing for a leaky roof. Check the chimney flashing to make sure that it doesn’t look damaged or loose in any way. The caulk should also still be in place without any cracks or holes.
Inspect the Attic
If you have an attic, you should also inspect it during the time you are checking your roof. If you ever have a leaky roof, the first signs are usually noticed in the attic. You can check your attic for water spots on the walls, and even puddles on the floor. If you find any indicator that water damage has occurred, you need to contact a roof professional right away.
Get Rid of Debris
Check your roof for any debris, such as twigs and leaves, that have built up during the fall. Don’t allow the debris to remain there throughout the winter since its accumulation of it can lead to water damage. You can use a leaf blower or your hands to remove the debris.
Gutters
Don’t forget to clean out your gutters since they also accumulate leaves and other debris. They should be cleaned out properly to keep them from getting clogged and allow the rainwater and snow to properly drain off your roof.
Keep Branches Trimmed
If you have any trees close to your house, now is the time to trim any branches that are low hanging. These branches can pose a threat during the winter, causing them to snap during a storm. This can add more stress to your roof.