Generally, the roof of your home is strong and capable of handling anything that winter throws at it, but only if you look after it well! Here are a few ways you can protect your roof to ensure it stays free of winter weather damage.
1. Check for cracks and weak spots.
While small cracks may seem harmless, they can turn into bigger cracks and cause leaks, water damage, and mold. Ignoring a small blemish on your roof could lead to expensive repairs and in worse cases to a complete roof replacement. so make sure you protect your roof by patching any unstable areas before winter weather arrives.
2. Keep an eye on storms.
Watching your local news and staying up-to-date on winter weather can also help protect your roof from winter damage. Prep your roof before a storm by getting a thorough roof inspection, and be sure to get your roof checked after the storm as well. Fix winter storm damage in a timely manner, so that the problem doesn’t worsen and cause more harm to your home.
3. Trust your instincts.
If you are nervous about how close a tree branch is getting to your roofline, don’t wait to see if it breaks or collects a dangerous load of snow during a winter storm. Listen to your gut and have someone trim the branch. Think your gutters may need cleaning? Go ahead and haul the ladder out to check them. It’s better to err on the safe side and protect your roof than to risk your roof getting damaged.
4. Have your roof inspected regularly.
Snow, ice, hail, and harsh winds are an inevitable part of winter weather. This is why, regardless of what season it is, it’s essential to get your roof inspected regularly for missing shingles and cracks as well as potential dangers such as clogged gutters and overhanging branches. We recommend you get your roof inspected at least twice a year, in the spring and fall, in order to protect your roof from storm damage.