Protect your roof through every season

By Great Roofing and Restoration.

Here’s some proactive steps to ensure your roof survives the winter weather.

Weather can be unpredictable, one moment it's sweltering hot, the next it's frigid cold. Each of these weather extremes impacts your roof in a different way.  With a little attention and planning, you can ensure your home stays protected and secure through every season. The professionals at Great Roofing and Restoration have provided a breakdown of the potential effects of each season and the best tips for winter maintenance.

The four seasons challenge

As a homeowner, living year-round in your home, you’re in for a ride through all four seasons. It’s a blast, but let’s be real – dealing with stuff like fallen leaves and snow can be a bit of a headache. Each season throws its curveballs, and today, we’ll take a look at some of the rooftop challenges associated with each season.  

• Summer sun: The intense summer sun can accelerate the deterioration of asphalt shingles, leading to cracks and granule loss. Get those roof inspections in during summer to catch and address any damage before the next season rolls in.
• Autumn leaves and debris: Fall is beautiful. Weekends filled with football, food ,andfamily. But, if you have a yard with lots of trees you will likely spend your morning doing some serious yard work! Those falling leaves and random debris can turn into a real roof nightmare if left unaddressed. Clogged gutters? No thanks! Regular clean-ups and inspections are the name of the game during the fall months.
• Winter ice and snow: Snow and ice can turn your roof into a winter wonderland, but too much can be a weighty issue. Insulation and ventilation play a huge part in preventing ice dams and leaks. If you spot trouble, don’t wait – schedule an inspection ASAP. Since this is the season we’re dealing with now, we’ll dive deeper into some tips for winter maintenance below!
• Spring showers: Spring showers might bring flowers, but they can also unveil hidden roof weak spots. Keep an eye out for leaks and schedule that roof inspection post-winter to stay one step ahead.

Importance of regular roof inspections

Now, let’s talk about regular roof check-ups. Twice a year, ideally or after any severe weather events. If uncertainty arises, seeking a professional opinion is crucial to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

Tips for winter roof maintenance

Winter can be challenging, but addressing winter challenges proactively can significantly extend the life of your roof. Remember: Your safety is our top priority! If you’re not comfortable getting on your roof, stay on the ground. Our restoration consultants are safety trained and ready to handle this for you. You can still assess your roof safely from the ground, but for a professional opinion, we always recommend consulting experts! Now, let’s jump into our five tips for winter maintenance:

1 - Snow removal

While it might be tempting to leave the snow undisturbed, excess weight can strain your roof’s structure. Use a roof rake to gently remove accumulated snow, taking care not to damage the shingles in the process.

2 - Ice dam prevention

Ice dams occur when melting snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, leading to water backup. Keeping your attic cozy by ensuring proper insulation and ventilation to regulate temperatures can help prevent ice dams.  

3 - Gutter maintenance

Clean your gutters before winter sets in to prevent ice dams and water buildup. Clogged gutters can exacerbate the risk of ice dam formation, leading to potential leaks and water damage. Occasional checks during winter wouldn’t hurt either. So, on those random winter days where it feels like spring, check your gutters and clear them if necessary!

4 - Heat cables

Consider having heated cables installed along the roof edges to prevent ice dam formation. Unfortunately, some homes are just prone to ice dams. If you have struggled in past winters with ice dams, we highly suggest giving your roof a heated blanket by having heat cables installed as a preventative measure!

5 - Monitor for leaks

Keep a close eye on your ceiling for any signs of leaks or water stains during winter. If you notice anything unusual, addressing it promptly can help to prevent further damage.

So, there you have it, a little overview about how weather affects your roof’s well-being. Remember, proactive maintenance is key to ensuring a secure and leak-free home during the winter months.  

Original article source: Great Roofing and Restoration.