Getting Your Roof Ready For Winter

With winter knocking at the door, it’s time to prepare your home for the cold season that’s surely on its way. Snow and ice can be very damaging to a home’s exterior, especially roofs that take the brunt of all the elements. This is why it’s important to ensure your roof is in good shape so you can be assured of total comfort, protection, and energy efficiency this winter.

Regular TLC also helps to prevent expensive repairs and replacements that you may be faced with come spring. Here’s what you can do to get your roof ready for winter.

Check For Damaged or Missing Shingles

Be on the lookout for any missing or damaged shingles. You don’t have to get up on your roof to do this. Grab a pair of binoculars and take a look from the safety of the ground. Take note of any missing shingles. Even just one missing shingle can allow water to invade your home. Also, take note of any shingles that are curling or cracking. They should be repaired before winter so they can do their job of protecting your home.

Replace missing shingles and repair individual shingles that have sustained minor damage. More extensive or widespread damage will have to be handled by a professional roofer in DC.

Look For Signs of Sagging

A sagging roof is a big red flag and should be addressed immediately. Take a look at your roof from various angles around your property. If you are noticing areas that are dipping or sagging, there could be a major underlying structural problem to blame. Water damage to the roof decking could also be the culprit.

Sagging areas of a roof tend to get worse over the winter thanks to the extra weight added from all that snow and ice.

Inspect For Granule Loss

Aging asphalt shingle roofs often leave an accumulation of granules in your gutters. Those granules are important because they protect your roof from the harsh UV rays of the sun while helping to shed water. In addition to gutters riddles with granules, other signs of granule loss include areas that appear smoother than others or that have a different color.

Some granule loss is normal, but extensive amounts will put your roof at an increased risk of winter damage.

Clean Out Your Gutters

Gutters get clogged with leaves, dirt, acorns, and debris over the fall, which means this is a great time to clean them out before they damage your siding and roof. You can remove debris by scooping it out by hand, or you can opt to use a leaf blower or garden hose as a way to flush out your gutters. Check the positioning of your downspouts to ensure water can flow freely away from your foundation.

Improve Air Circulation

Adequate attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup and provides a more consistent temperature, which in turn prevents ice dams from forming. Make sure you have sufficient intake and exhaust vents in your attic, and that they are not blocked by debris or insulation.

If you do not have enough insulation, add more before winter hits. You ideally want a thickness of 10 to 14 inches or more. Make sure the spaces around vents, chimneys, and other penetrations are sealed and insulated.

Inspect Flashing

Metal flashing seals joints and prevents water from getting inside your home. It’s usually found around penetrations such as chimneys, vents, and skylights. Keep an eye out for damage like cracks, rust, or gaps. You may have to reseal joints with roofing cement or completely replace the damaged flashing.

Check for Water Stains

Take a look for signs of dampness or water stains in your attic, and address the source before winter. Be on the lookout for discolored areas on your insulation, roof decking, or attic floor.

Remove Hazards

Trim back low-hanging branches that could impact your roof during snow and ice storms. Ensure a clearance of 10 feet or more between tree limbs and the roof. At the same time, remove any debris such as twigs, leaves, and organic matter such as moss or algae. Clear away any debris along the perimeter of your home’s foundation as well.

Get a Free Roofing Quote From NVB Contracting

Before winter sets in, it’s wise to contact us now for your FREE roof inspection. Our DC roofers can schedule a roof inspection, then recommend any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure your home will be well protected all season long.