It’s important to take some steps to winterize your home before the inevitably wet, snowy, and chilly weather hits your area. While your HVAC system is an integral part of keeping your home warm during the extremely cold weather, your winterization plan should also include your home’s roofing system.
Don’t worry if you aren’t sure about what to do! We have put together a checklist to help you make your home more comfortable during winter.
Here is the ultimate checklist for winterizing your roof.
Conduct Necessary Repairs
Those who don’t pay much attention to the maintenance of their roof suffer the most as winter approaches. A roofing system can have many weak spots that occur over time. These weak spots tend to worsen during winter as they are exploited by damaging external elements. Therefore, it is important to conduct necessary repairs, including repair damaged or loose shingles and replacing missing shingles, before winter arrives.
Cut Tree Limbs
Even the healthiest tree limbs can come tumbling down on your roof as a result of high winds or the weight of ice and snow. If the trees surrounding your home have grown taller than your roof and are threatening your roofing system, then cut back the tree limbs instantly. This will help save you from emergency repair and protect your home from any water damage.
Get Your Roof Gutters Cleaned
Your roof and roof gutters must be thoroughly cleaned before the arrival of winter. The growth of algae on your roof can seep under the shingles. This worsens during winter as freezing temperatures cause the algae to expand and expose your roof to damaging elements.
Rain gutters also play an integral role in maintaining your roofing system. A clogged or damaged rain gutter allows water to penetrate your roof, attic, and home, causing significant damage to your yard and even the foundation of your home.
Check the Insulation of Your Attic
Insulation keeps your home warm during winter and cool during summer. It is imperative to keep a check on your attic’s insulation to ensure that it is in good shape. Any damp or moldy insulation must be removed to protect your roof. Adding insulation to your attic, when required, is a great way to save energy, improve comfort, and protect your roofing system.
Get Frequent Professional Roof Inspections
As a homeowner who loves doing things by themselves, it may be tempting for you to climb on your roof to practice some of these tips, such as repairing shingles. However, you must know that this isn’t safe at all! Walking on the roof can be quite dangerous; a single stumble or misstep can lead to disastrous consequences. Moreover, walking on a roof could also end up damaging other tiles or shingles.
Therefore, the best way to protect your roof and get it ready for the winter season is to schedule a professional roof inspection. Not only will this help elongate the lifespan of your roofing system, but it will also improve the efficiency of your home.
To learn more about winterizing your home, contact America Roofing now!
