As the temperatures start to drop and the leaves begin to fall, it's time to start thinking about preparing your home for winter—and that includes your roof. After all, your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it's essential to ensure it's in good shape before the coldest months of the year. This blog post will discuss what you need to do to prepare your roof for winter.
Preparing Your Roof
Gutters and Downspouts
Inspecting your gutters and downspouts regularly throughout fall is important, and cleaning them out as needed. They can quickly become clogged with a buildup of fallen leaves and debris. If these remain clogged, the water from rain and snow will not adequately drain away from the property and can cause extensive damage to your yard and foundation.
Trim Branches
Branches that have grown over or near your home may require trimming. This will eliminate the chance of branches rubbing against your siding or roof, potentially causing damage. Additionally, in the event of a snowstorm, the branches could fall under the weight of the snow and end up on your roof.
Check Seals
Check the seals around your doors and windows to make sure there are no cracks that could allow heat to escape. You can recaulk the area to keep the cozy air inside if you find any small cracks or gaps. Additionally, inspect your insulation in the attic. Insulation is critical to keeping warm air from escaping, so if you see any damaged insulation, it requires repair. This also helps with efficiency and will help save on your monthly energy bill.
Replace Your Roof
While this solution may seem a bit extreme, sometimes it is necessary and will save quite a bit of money in the long run. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it may be time. An aging roof can accumulate damage and decrease efficiency over the years.
Signs You Need A New Roof
- Buckling or curling shingles
- Missing or damaged shingles
- You can see daylight through holes in your roof
- Your attic has water stains on the ceiling or walls
Taking a few simple precautionary measures, you can help ensure that your roof withstands whatever winter throws its way. If you notice any damage or are having trouble maintaining regular preventative repair, contact a professional for help. With a bit of preparation, you can rest easy knowing that your roof will be able to weather the storm - literally!
Contact The Experts!
At Rooftop Designs we are committed to teaching our clients how to best care for their homes. For more information about when it's time to install your new roof, call our experts at (855) 741-0575