How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter Weather

A good roof is essential to keeping your home warm, dry, and safe from animals. It’s easy to take advantage of your roof since it’s not exactly at eye level but preparing your roof for winter is something that’s too important to forget! If you’ve never prepared a roof for winter before, this is the perfect time to start. Proper care and protection is much cheaper than a new roof! 

Check Your Gutters

Your gutters should be cleaned out twice per year. Ideally, one of those times should be at the end of autumn, right before winter begins. Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters and you’ll need to clear that debris to ensure proper waterflow is possible. Gutters are especially prone to issues in the winter months because of ice dams, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures. Gutter issues will quickly lead to pooling water on your roof and potentially detrimental leaks. Cleaning your gutters is a quicker process than you’d think, all you need is a ladder and some gloves! 

Trimming Trees

Keep the trees around your home trimmed to minimize the amount of debris that falls onto your roof and into the gutters. Trees should be trimmed back enough that they aren’t hanging over your roof or gutters. If a tree is hanging over your house, it can potentially fall onto your roof and cause some serious damage. 

Look at the Roof from Your Attic

When you go up to your attic to dig out holiday decorations, take a few extra minutes to look at the ceiling. The ceiling of your attic is actually the inside of your roof. If there are any areas where you can see light or a visible hole, your roof needs repaired ASAP. Proper attic insulation can also help to minimize the amount of ice dams and pooling water you’ll deal with this winter. 

Inspect the Shingles 

Last but definitely not least, take a closer look at your shingles. Look for signs of lifting or rolling shingles, as well as any damaged shingles. Repair those areas as needed before winter. Inspect your shingles again in the spring to ensure the winter weather didn’t cause any new damage. Different types of roofs last different lengths of time, so checking them regularly is always a good idea.

If your roof needs repaired or replaced, contact K&B Home Remodelers right away to guarantee your house stays safe and warm this winter!