Winter is right around the corner, and that means snow and ice are on their way too. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t want the added hassle of dealing with a leaky roof. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make your roofing resistant to the winter weather. We’ll go over some tips for keeping your roof in good condition during the cold months, and we’ll also provide a few suggestions for fixing any damage that may have already been done.
How Can Winter Damage Your Roof?
There are a few ways in which winter weather can damage your roof. The most common problems is ice dams. These occur when the heat from your home melts the snow on your roof, and the water runs down to the colder edges where it freezes again. This can cause a build-up of ice that can damage your shingles and cause leaks.
Another problem that can occur is wind damage. High winds can loosen or tear shingles, and they can also lift up the edges of your roofing material, which can lead to leaks.
Finally, heavy snowfall can put stress on your roof and cause it to collapse. This is most likely to happen if you have a flat or low-pitched roof.
Tips for Preventing Winter Damage to Your Roof
#1. Keep Your Gutters Clean
Keeping your gutters clear is one of the greatest ways to avoid winter roof damage. Your gutters can’t accomplish their job of directing water away from your roof if they’re clogged with leaves and other debris. This causes water to back up onto your roof, potentially causing leaks and other issues.
You’ll need a ladder, gloves, and a bucket to clean your gutters. To begin, clear any heavy debris from the gutter. After that, rinse away any residual dirt or leaves using a garden hose. Once the gutters are clear, keep an eye on them throughout the winter to ensure they don’t become blocked.
#2. Regular Inspection
It’s also a great thing to examine your roof for any symptoms of damage on a regular basis. If you notice any missing or damaged shingles, be sure to replace them as soon as possible. You should also check for any cracks or holes in your roofing material, and seal them with caulk or another type of sealant.
#3. Trimming Trees
If you have any trees near your home, it’s important to trim them regularly. Overhanging branches can create structural damage in a storm, and they can also fall and cause serious damage to your home.
#4. Remove The Ice and Snow
This can be a difficult task, depending on the size of your roof and the amount of snow or ice that has accumulated. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
#5. Fix Any Leaks Right Away
If you do find a leak in your roof, it’s important to fix it quickly. Ignoring a leak can cause serious damage to your home, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth. To repair a leak, you’ll need to first find the source of the leak. Once you’ve located the source, you can patch the hole or replace the damaged shingles.
Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor
If you’re not comfortable inspecting or repairing your roof yourself, you can always hire a roofing contractor. A good contractor will be able to inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs. They can also offer tips for preventing winter damage to your roof in the future.
When hiring a contractor, be sure to get references and check their credentials. You should also make sure they carry insurance in case of any accidents. Finally, be sure to get a written estimate before work begins. This will help ensure that you are getting the best possible value for your money. Here at Mighty Dog Roofing, we would be more than happy to help you with all your roofing needs. Give us a call today! Don’t worry about the coming winter, we’ve got you covered.
Mighty Dog Roofing is a professional roofing contractor that can help you with all your roofing needs. We are insured and carry insurance in case of any accidents. We also provide written estimates before work begins. Call us today at (833) MIGHTY 4 to schedule a free consultation.
