As the weather begins to turn, it is time to start thinking about winterizing your roof. Your roof is the last line of defense between your family and the harsh elements of winter. Consider these steps to ensure that your home is protected during the winter months.

  1. Get up on your roof and take a close look at your roof and exam it for any damage. Look for signs like rot, stains, and missing shingles as an indication that work will need to be done before winter. After significant snowfall, even minor issues can cause major problems.
  2. Make sure to check your gutters. Before the first snowfall hits, ensure that leaves and other debris have been removed. If you do not have a way for melting snow to drain properly, water damage issues could occur.
  3. Look for any trees with branches that hang over your roof and consider removing them. Heavy snowfall can weigh tree branches down, causing them to break and land on your roof. This can potentially cause severe damage to the exterior and structural aspects of your roof.
  4. Check for any evidence of pests, both around your roof and inside your attic. Look for any signs of insects, birds and small rodents that may be damaging your roof or nesting in the attic. Even minor damage can indicate major issues down the road. While checking your attic, be sure to look for any ventilation issues. Anything that could cause mold or mildew can be harmful to your health and the health of your home.
  5. In addition to checking your attic, make sure to check walls and ceilings for any signs of water damage. Water stains and other signs of damage may indicate a leak in your roof and should be addressed immediately.

Getting a head start on winterizing your roof is important. If you find any damage that needs to be addressed, call A Custom To for a free estimate.