How to Get Your Roof Ready for Winter
Thanksgiving just passed, folks, so you know what that means. Yes, winter will soon be upon us. Don’t fret though, there is still time to get things in order before the cold season truly settles in. Seeing as the exterior of your home, particularly your roof, gets the brunt of the cold weather, let’s take a look what you can do to get your roof ready for the upcoming winter season…
Examine Your Roof’s Edge
Soffit, fascia, and fasteners are the components that make up your roof’s edge and act as defenses against harsh winter weather. They can become weakened over time as they age which can make your roof more vulnerable to weather and wear-related damage. Some things to keep an eye out for include visible rust, loose or worn fasteners, peeling or bubbling paint, and missing or cracked sealant. If you notice any of these things, it’s likely time to call in the professionals.
Clean Debris from Your Roof
If you want to winterize your roof, you must give it a good cleaning. This involves clearing away overhanging branches by a good six feet to prevent sap from dripping down on your roof once winter rolls out and spring rolls in. You’ll also want to remove any debris that has settled on your roof, particularly anything that would keep water from properly draining. If water cannot properly drain from your roof, you could begin encountering issues with mold, mildew, and fungus. Lastly, clear out your gutters. After all, water won’t be able to flow away if the gutter is clogged with wet leaves, twigs, and other grime. Water spilling over clogged gutters can lead to some easily avoided but costly damage to your home.
Check Out Your Roof from the Inside
The saying, “Never judge a book by its cover”, also applies to your roof. If you want to know how your roof is truly holding up, take a look at it from the inside. There are a few things you’re going to want to inspect, the first being your insulation. If the insulation looks uniform with no worn-out sections or water damage, you’re likely doing good. Take a look at your fan system as well, and make sure the system is balanced with the correct proportion of properly placed intake and outtake vents. If you happen to spot evidence of staining in the attic or on any upstairs ceilings, keep a close eye on it. If you notice the troubled spot(s) get bigger after a weather event, you likely have a leak on your hands.
Getting your roof ready for winter is crucial, so get the process started now and utilize our suggested tips before it’s too late! If you find you have a bigger problem on your hands than you anticipated, give us a call at 781-405-5584. You can also fill out our online contact form.
