During winter, most homes face numerous challenges that come with the harsh weather. Since residential roofing serves as your first line of defense against the biting cold, it’s only necessary to ensure that the roof is ready for the season. Here are four steps you can take to be prepared.

4 Roof Maintenance Tips in Winter

1. Schedule an Inspection

As a homeowner, it’s essential to know how your residential roofing will fare in unfavorable weather conditions. Before the cold sets in, have a licensed roofer inspect the structure for safety and integrity instead of doing it by yourself. They’ll perform a comprehensive check of your roof to address any early issues before they get worse. Knowing that it won’t collapse with heavy snowfall or a sudden storm will give you some peace of mind.

2. Keep It Free of Debris

Make it a point to remove debris on your residential roofing, particularly in the gutters. Debris that build up in the gutters combined with heavy snowfall can weigh down the unit and cause it to loosen at the joints or detach from the home’s exterior wall.

Debris in the gutters can also obstruct the flow of melted snow, resulting in spillovers and eventually water seepage into your home — all of which can be costly to repair.

3. Opt for Repairs Whenever Necessary

During the inspection, your roofer will recommend solutions for any troubles they identify. Typical issues include loose flashing, missing roofing components, holes, cracked sealant, and other damaged areas. Pay attention to any sagging or bouncy spots as well. Instead of delaying the inevitable, fix these right away. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of an emergency during a prolonged cold spell.

4. Assess the Attic

Whenever it snows, ice dams remain a possibility on your roof. They often form when fallen snow melts because of the warm roof surface and solidifies after the water run-off reaches a colder area. This cycle goes on, resulting in an icy, heavy buildup. To prevent this, start by inspecting your attic. If the area is poorly insulated, your roof is more susceptible to ice dams, and you’ll also face higher heating costs.

 

 

If you need roof repairs, look no further than Columbia Roofing. As the trusted roofing contractor in Elkridge, MD, they’ve provided quality installations, repairs, and maintenance work throughout the state for over three decades. Call (410) 379-6100 for roofing estimates or inquire via their website today.