With winter weather quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about your roof. Those shingles over your head are all that stands between your family and the blustery days or blizzards outside, so make sure your roof is in top shape before the snow begins to fall. If you’re not sure where to start, here are four simple checks to make sure your roof is ready.
Ensure Adequate Ventilation
Many people incorrectly assume that roof ventilation is only necessary in warm weather. However, the real purpose of roof vents is to control moisture rather than heat. Without proper ventilation, the cold air from outside will meet the warm air in your attic and create condensation. This moisture can cause major damage, so get your vents and fans checked before the temperature drops to prevent rotted beams and a soggy ceiling.
Repair and Replace Shingles
Your roof’s shingles are its line of defense against winter snow and ice. Damaged, rotted or missing shingles can spell disaster when the snow begins to fall, so get your roof inspected and repaired by a roofing contractor every fall. You should also consider a second inspection in the spring if winter has brought a lot of precipitation because melting ice, blizzards and snowstorms can damage shingles.
Install or Replace Seal Coating
Did you know there is a simple and affordable way to help prevent winter weather damage to your roof? Seal coating is a waterproof material that is painted onto your roof to protect it from moisture. While this coating is optional for sloped roofs, it’s a critical layer of protection if you have a flat roof. Seal coating is usually replaced each year, and autumn is the best time to do it.
Clean Gutters and Drains
Autumn leaves do a number on your home’s drainage system. Cleaning your gutters is a fall maintenance must to make sure all that winter snowfall can safely drain away when it melts. Dirty, clogged gutters cause moisture to sit on your roof, which leads to rotted shingles and roof leaks. If you have open gutters, consider replacing them with covered leaf guard gutters to reduce the amount of cleaning and maintenance required.
If the worst happens and your roof develops a leak or other problem during the winter, remember to call a roofing professional as soon as possible. Although working on a roof is more difficult in winter weather, letting maintenance problems go can turn an inexpensive fix into a major repair.
