Winter can be a rough time for your roof. The extra weight from snow and ice can easily cause damage to the structure. Rapidly fluctuating temperatures can cause wooden beams to warp and shingles to crack. As the snow on your roof slowly melts, it can seep into cracks and then wreak havoc once it freezes again. Here’s a checklist of things you can do to mitigate some of these issues.
A Winter Roofing Checklist
Keeping your roof in peak condition requires some diligence. If you protect it, ti will protect you.
- Visually inspect your roof
- Get a professional inspection
- Keep your gutters clean
- Have nearby trees trimmed
- Check your attic insulation
Visually inspect your roofing for damaged or missing shingles before the first winter storm arrives. You may even want to have a professional inspection done because an expert roofer will notice things that you might miss. Clogged gutters can prevent the flow of water, ultimately causing ice dams that destroy your roof. These should be cleaned out regularly. If you have trees near your home, make sure to trim any branches that could break and fall on the roof during a winter storm.
If you have access to your attic, be sure to inspect it thoroughly at the beginning of the winter season. If too much heat escapes from your roof, it can quickly melt snow and cause ice dams. To prevent this, make sure your attic is thoroughly insulated and has good ventilation. While you’re up there, it’s also a good idea to check for mold, mildew, or discolored spots. These warning signs often appear long before you notice the first leaks from a damaged roof.
You might consider installing special heating cables around the edges of your roof. This can help to prevent ice and snow from piling up on the structure. The heating cables will melt snow and ice in a strategic way that allows the runoff to escape in a safe manner. For more tips on protecting your roof, it’s always a great idea to contact a reputable roofer. If you’re already experiencing issues, call an experienced roofer right away.
Let a Professional Roofer Handle It
Working on a roof can be extremely dangerous. No one needs an accident in the family during the winter holiday season. A good, professional roofer will have the experience and safety equipment to tackle the job for you. A professional can also find and diagnose problems that an amateur will likely miss. A botched roofing job will just cost you more money in the long run. If you notice any signs of trouble, you can contact Joe’s Roofing for residential roof repair in Reno, NV or the surrounding areas.
