Before the weather starts to take a turn for the worse, you want to make sure that the roof over your head is ready to handle the coming cold and snow that makes winter such a tough season for your home. Here are a few handy tips to keep in mind as you button up your home for the frigid season ahead.
Inspect the Shingles
The first thing you should do is get on top of your roof or take a look at it from a good vantage point if getting on top isn’t feasible. You want to take a look for a few trouble signs, including missing shingles or a noticeable sag or low point. Missing shingles are points where water can enter your home, and can lead to degradation of nearby shingle sections as moisture gets beneath the roof surface and wears out the tiling. Sags are a more serious concern, as they could be a symptom of more serious stability problems with your roof. One serious snow fall could add a significant weight to your roof, possibly even leading to a collapse. Make sure you get any issues fixed and addressed as soon as possible now to prevent serious issues during the winter months.
Clean Off the Surface
Just like anything else, a clean roof is a healthy roof. However, you need to be careful with how you clean, as high-power pressure washers can cause damage to your roof. Start your cleaning by removing any large debris, like twigs, sticks and branches, and follow up with a rinse using a low- or medium-pressure sprayer. This will still clear off fallen leaves and less entrenched mosses, while restoring your roof to a clean and clear state.
Check Around Edges
Wherever you have points on your roof where heights change, or if you have skylights, chimneys or other vents that come through on the roof, make sure to check each of these points for any signs of softness or weakness. Each of these spots is a location where caulking or seals can fail, especially if high temperatures, strong rains or other inclement weather have worn away the materials that keep water out. Checking these points and resealing where necessary will help keep you warm and dry all winter long.
Go Beneath
Lastly, check the roof from below from your attic and look for symptoms of leaks or water damage. Falling or disintegrated insulation could be a sign of leaks that are coming through and introducing moisture into your attic. This dampness destroys your insulation over time, making it less effective and costing you more money to keep your home warm. Wetness can also lead to problems with mold, mildew and rot, making it a serious concern. Checking from the attic gives is the final piece of a comprehensive roof assessment, giving you peace of mind that your roof is ready for winter.
If you suspect an issue or need some help getting your roof in tip-top shape for the months ahead, the team at Deegan Roofing Company can help. With more than a quarter-century of experience, we have the knowledge and know-how to identify and repair any problems you may have with your roof. Let us help you make sure your home is ready for winter. Contact us today for a free estimate and an in-person consultation!