Checklist for Winterizing Your Roof

Nov 18, 2020 | Roofing Tips

With chilly, wet, and snowy weather right around the corner, now’s the perfect time to take steps to winterize your roof. Getting your roof ready for winter will help you save money, reduce energy consumption, and stay more comfortable this season.

There are several things you need to have done to winterize your roof. In the article below, we’ll go over all the steps you need to take to have your roof ready for the cold weather months ahead. Continue reading to learn more!

Professional Roofing Services

If you fancy yourself a do-it-yourselfer, you may be tempted to perform all of these tasks yourself. However, not all of these winterizing steps are DIY-friendly. Walking on any roof is dangerous as even a single misstep or stumble can end in disaster. Not to mention, walking on your roof should only be done by a professional to prevent any damage to your shingles. So, do yourself a favor and hire a pro to take a look at your roof. Start with an inspection if you haven’t had one recently. Having your roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor will help your roof last longer and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

1. Have Repairs Made

If your roofing contractor notices any damage during the inspection, you need to have it repaired. Weak spots in your roofing system will become even more troublesome once the winter weather sets in. Any shingles that are loose or damaged need to be replaced as well as any missing shingles. Having any damage repaired will ensure that your roof can withstand the cold and wet weather ahead.

2. Have Tree Limbs Around Your Roof Cut Back

Cutback any tree limbs that are over or close enough to threaten your home’s roof, including healthy limbs. As winter approaches and snow begins to fall, it can accumulate on branches and cause them to buckle under the pressure. If these tree limbs are over your roof, they can tear off shingles, dent your roof, and even bust a hole in your roof if they’re large enough. By having the tree limbs cut back around your home, you can save yourself from the risk of an emergency repair or water damage.

3. Have Your Roof and Gutters Cleaned

Your roof and gutters need to be cleaned before every winter. Algae and moss growth on your roof can take root underneath your shingles. As a result, they can expand and expose your inner roofing materials to the elements during freezing temperatures. Your gutters also play an integral role in the structural integrity of your roof. Clogged, leaking, or otherwise damaged gutters can let water seep into the wood behind them, damage your siding, and even damage your home’s foundation. Aside from cleaning, you’ll need to have any damaged sections of guttering repaired as well to ensure that your gutters are clean and functional before the first snow.

4. Check Your Attic Insulation

The insulation beneath your roof acts as the last line of defense against cold seeping in through your roof. It keeps your home warmer during the winter months and cooler during the summer. Be sure to go take a peek in your attic to check on the insulation. Look around and ensure the insulation itself isn’t damaged or wet, and look for any spots where the insulation has fallen. If you come across any insulation that is wet or molded, remove it. If you use loose-fill insulation for your attic, ensure that it has been evenly distributed throughout. When you’re doing your check or replacing insulation, ensure that no insulation covers your roof vents. Adding insulation where it’s needed is an easy, affordable way to improve your energy efficiency, make your home more comfortable, make your roof better prepared for the winter.

Final Thoughts

Winterizing your roof every winter season is vital to making it last longer, keeping your home more comfortable, and becoming more energy efficient. The checklist for winterizing your roof includes having repairs made, having tree limbs around the home cut back, having your roof and gutters cleaned, and checking your attic insulation. Remember to hire a professional to handle any repairs, tree limbs, or cleanings. Once you have completed these steps, you should be all set for the cold weather ahead!

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Checklist for Winterizing Your Roof