As winter approaches, cold weather and harsh conditions such as snow and sleet can cause tremendous problems with your roof. Knowing how to prepare your roof for the winter months can help ensure that it’s able to handle anything that winter can bring.
Trim Your Trees
Tree branches that fall and break can scratch shingles, and those that are weighed down by snow can completely loosen shingles or create small holes. Prevent this by trimming trees and removing branches that are overhanging your roof. This is maintenance that should be completed either in the fall or spring of each year.
Make Your Gutters Sparkle
While many people ignore them, downspouts and gutters are important for your roof and home. They provide a way for accumulated rainwater to flow freely and not pool. When gutters are full of debris, they don’t perform properly and can lead to severe water damage when winter storms roll in.
Check and Replace Insulation
Insulation is important for keeping your home warm in the winter and decreasing your utility bill. However, damaged insulation can cause bigger problems than increased costs. At the beginning of the season and throughout, you want to check the insulation in your basement and attic to ensure that it isn’t damaged. Ripped matting can indicate an animal presence, and wetness can lead to mold. Damaged insulation can also indicate a roof leak and can point you to the approximate place of the leak.
Fix Leaks Fast
While a small leak may not seem like a problem, you will want to fix it at the beginning of the fall season. A small leak can easily become a big leak with falling temperatures and harsh elements. Small leaks can also be an indicator of other problems such as gaps in siding or loose shingles that will need to be repaired before winter arrives. Always seek professional help for leaks you are unsure of how to locate or fix. Not knowing what you’re doing can lead to serious injury.
Schedule Your Yearly Inspection
While there are plenty of ways to ensure that your roof is free of damage and to prevent it from happening, nothing can compete with a professional inspection. Professionals know more about your roof and can fix existing damage, prepare for the winter months, and give you tips and preventative measures for year-round care. A professional inspection should be done on a yearly basis.
Whether you are looking for a quick fix, a serious repair, or a yearly inspection, Rosie’s Roofing and Restoration, a trusted roofing company in Atlanta knows how to help. With 30 years of experience in exterior maintenance and roofing, we can help you with everything from a small leak repair to a new roof. Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the variety of services we offer homeowners.
