Winter is well on its way to making an appearance. If you haven’t already, now is the time to assess the condition of your roof before winter arrives. Preparation is key to extending the life of your roof and protecting your home against damage. There are things you can do as a homeowner to get your roof ready for winter storms, in addition to hiring a professional to inspect your roof. Here’s a look at how to prepare.

Roof Inspection

Each year you should have your roof inspected, even if you don’t think there are any issues. A professional will check your framework for signs of sagging or leaks, the seals on the flashing, valleys for leaks, shingle damage, and more. Any issues found will need to be repaired as soon as possible before the weather turns sour.

Clean Debris

Your roof, gutters, and spouts should be clear of debris. After fall, there tends to be quite a mess of leaves and small branches that have made their way onto your roof and into your gutters. This debris can clog your gutters and not allow water to flow freely. This in turn leads to the water freezing inside your gutters and they may begin to sag or break apart due to the extra weight.

Attic Inspection

Ventilation in your attic is also very important. Not only will proper ventilation help to keep your energy costs low, it will also protect your home against damage. In the winter, a lack of ventilation causes moisture to collect in your attic and begin to condense. This moisture has nowhere to go if not properly ventilated and can cause mold and mildew to grow and eventually roof deck rotting. With proper ventilation this moisture is able to escape, keeping your attic dry. To learn more about attic ventilation, check out our recent blog, ‘Why is Proper Roof Ventilation Vital for Your Home?’.

Monitor Your Roof

Even if you’ve prepared your roof for winter, it’s important to check for signs of damage throughout the season. While it’s not advised to hike up your slippery roof to inspect, you can monitor your attic for moisture or any signs of damage by looking at the rooftop. If you have a large branch that’s fallen on your roof or other debris, call a professional to assist you in inspection and repairs.

 

At Lake Orion Roofing, your safety is important to us. Give us a call at (248) 393-0055 to assess your roof and make any needed repairs before the winter storms head our way. Let our 30 years of experience work for you!