How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

When the temperatures start dropping in Arvada, people close windows and doors earlier at night. They pull their cars into the garage when it snows and light a fire in the fireplace. Indoors, people are also protected from the cold by the walls and roofs of their homes. Roofs, in particular, bear the brunt of cold, snowy conditions.

If you live in Arvada, or anywhere in Colorado for that matter, preparing your roof for the cold months is crucial. Proper preparation will ensure your roof holds up as the weather turns harsh and help you avoid expensive repairs.

Keep reading to discover easy ways to prepare and maintain your roof and when to call a professional roofer in Arvada, CO.

When to Get Help

Before you start with any preparations, you must determine whether you can handle the process on your own. Remember, roof work is inherently dangerous. This is especially true if your roof has very high or steep slopes.

Also, if you notice significant roof damage that needs repairing before winter, it is always better to call the professionals. This includes things like missing shingles or large leaks.

If you have never done roof repair or maintenance, calling a roofer in your area is also the better option. Hiring a professional roofer will ensure your roof is fixed and prepared correctly and according to roofing standards.

Start With the Gutters

Whether you prepare on your own or hire a roofer, starting with the gutters is essential. Gutters tend to become clogged with leaves and twigs, especially during fall.

If you do not keep your home’s gutters clean, it will cause water (rain and melting snow) to back up onto the roof. This could result in leaks or ice dams.

You want to use a small shovel or scoop to carefully dig out leaves and debris from your gutters carefully. Run water through the downspouts using a hose to ensure there are no blockages.

While you are at it, check for signs of damage or wear to the gutters. If you notice sagging, cracking, or rust, it is time to call a roofer for a consultation. Ideally, you want to get these issues sorted before winter starts.

If your gutters work properly, it will help prevent water damage to your roof. It will also allow melting snow to drain off the roof instead of collecting on top of it.

See also: Practical Cleaning Strategies For The Overwhelmed

Check Shingles for Damage

Roof shingles protect your home against moisture. Along with gutters, you must check the shingles for signs of damage. If there are missing shingles or significant granule loss, these issues must be fixed sooner rather than later.

You should also check for damaged flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Flashing that is worn or loose will let water into your home.

You can do a basic roof inspection from the ground. But, if you notice damage, it is a good idea to let a professional roofer do a detailed inspection.

Cut Overhanging Tree Branches

Sometimes, just trimming tree branches is not enough. If there are large branches near your roof, cut them off. Snow and ice can weigh down these branches, and they can end up damaging your roof.

Overhanging branches also shed twigs and leaves that will continue blocking your gutters.

Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation

Insulation and ventilation in your attic help prevent ice dams on the roof. It also helps keep your roof healthy. Ice dams form when heat escapes through the attic and causes snow on the roof to melt. The water refreezes at the edges, which causes a water backup.

It is important to check that your attic is sufficiently insulated to prevent heat loss. At the same time, the attic must also be properly ventilated. This will allow cold air to flow in and warm air to escape.

If your attic is not properly ventilated, warm air will remain trapped, increasing the risk of ice dams.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

You may miss potential roof issues even if you know what to check for. The most reliable way to ensure your roof is ready for winter is to schedule a professional inspection.

A roofer can detect hidden or structural issues. They can also fix problems before they get worse. Knowing your roof has been professionally prepared for winter will help you enjoy the colder weather without worry.

Preparing Your Roof Means Minimal Risk of Damage 

It is always better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to roof preparation. You must clean your gutters, inspect and repair the shingles, and ensure no tree branches are hanging over your roof. Doing this, together with proper attic insulation, will help prevent damage during winter and keep your roof in great shape throughout winter.