What to do before the first snowfall to keep your home protected

By Dani Sheehan. 

Early fall is the best time to get your roof inspected and repaired before winter’s harsh conditions set in. 

As we enter the “-ber” months, the countdown to the holiday season begins, along with the approach of winter weather. Now is the best time to ensure your roof is prepared to protect your home from snow, ice and freezing temperatures. It’s easy to delay roof maintenance, but waiting too long can lead to expensive repairs. By taking action now, you can avoid being caught off guard by leaks, ice dams and other cold-weather damage.  

Why roof maintenance matters 

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Regular maintenance ensures small issues don’t become major headaches down the road. A certified roofing professional will have the necessary tools and expertise to safely navigate your roof, apply weather-resistant coatings and make any necessary repairs to extend the life of your roof. 

If you don’t have a roofing company in mind, Instant Roofer is here to help! With a network of over 44,227 highly rated roofing contractors nationwide, let them find a roofer in your area that is a perfect match. 

What to expect during a roof inspection 

A roof inspection typically focuses on ensuring that all aspects of the roof are functioning properly. Professionals will look for any damaged or missing shingles, flashing issues or signs of water damage. Understand that roofing professionals know how to maintain a cedar shingle roof and what goes into safely cleaning a metal roof, but both materials have different needs and concerns as you enter the colder months. 

Before the roofing contractor arrives, you can do a visual inspection from the ground. Remove debris from the gutters and check for proper drainage if it is safe to do so. Look for overhanging branches that could damage the shingles during a storm. Inside your home, check the attic and ceilings for any signs of leaks. 

Roof maintenance checklist for homeowners 

While there are a few tasks you can do yourself, such as cleaning gutters or trimming overhanging branches, a professional should handle the more critical roof maintenance tasks. Download Instant Roofer’s Annual Roof Maintenance Checklist for a complete guide to preparing your roof for winter. 

Here are a few tasks roofing professionals will handle during their visit: 

• Conduct a thorough roof inspection to detect any hidden issues. 
• Apply a protective coating to help your roof withstand harsh winter weather. 
• Repair or replace damaged flashing and shingles. 
• Inspect for leaks or areas that might be vulnerable to water damage. 
• Remove built-up debris and moss that could weigh down your roof. 

As you prepare your home for the changing seasons, don’t forget about other parts of your property that may need attention before the cold sets in. Make sure to winterize your water systems, such as garden hoses and irrigation systems, to avoid frozen pipes. You can also talk to your roofing contractor about improving your attic insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams and reduce heating costs. 

Winterizing your roof doesn’t just protect your home from the elements – it also saves you money in the long run. By addressing potential problems now, you can avoid the higher costs of emergency repairs and enjoy the peace of mind that your home is ready for colder weather.  

Find a local roofer with Instant Roofer, and schedule your roof inspection before the first winter storm arrives.