Cold weather is on the way and with it comes snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against harsh weather, and ensuring it’s in top shape is essential. Before the temperature drops, call your roofing contractor for an inspection and follow these tips to prepare your roof for winter.

How to Make Sure the Roof Is Ready for the Winter Season

1. Gutters & Downspouts

During the fall, leaves, twigs, and branches accumulate as the trees shed for the season. This will collect on your roof and end up in the gutters. If gutters get clogged with debris, they will not drain water properly. Gutter cleaning is a critical step before winter storms roll in to prevent ice and snow buildup on the roof. If your gutters tend to clog easily, consider adding gutter guards to keep large particles and animal nests out of your gutters.

2. Cleanup

While you’re attending to gutters, remove any debris sitting on your roofing system, including tree detritus and nests. When left on your roof, these items become saturated with moisture, leading to mold, algae, and moss. These issues can eventually lead to water damage and will only get worse when the snow and ice come down.

3. Attic Insulation

The underside of roofing is just as important as the top. Attic and crawlspace insulation helps maintain internal temperatures, so heat doesn’t escape, leading to thawing and refreezing of precipitation on the roof. This pattern eventually creates ice dams that prevent proper drainage and weigh heavily on the roof, damaging it. Inspect insulation and ensure it is not frayed or missing, and replace any compromised sections.

4. Damage & Leaks

Look for any signs of leaks like water stains on the ceiling and walls. If water is getting inside, a roofing contractor should make repairs to the roof before winter. Anything from missing or broken shingles to improperly sealed flashing will let moisture inside. Other signs of trouble are shingle granules in gutters, pooling water near your foundation, and sagging sections of roofing. These all point to a failing roof that needs attention.

5. Roofing Contractors

A professional inspection by a roofing contractor is always your best bet before the season changes. Not only are they trained to spot issues, but they can offer preventive care tips and maintenance to ensure your roof lasts. Since they’re experts, they understand how to safely access and clean roofing, taking the stress off you.

When Cincinnati, OH, residents need professional roofing contractors to prepare for winter, Superior Products is there. The team understands how to keep the exterior of your property in top shape no matter the season. Whether you need a new roof, siding installation or to replace your windows, call (513) 231-1168. Visit them online to contact them about roofing services.