Though snow is quick to melt under the bright Colorado sun, winter weather can still cause problems for homeowners. For example, many roofs suffer from ice damage. By the time the cold pulls back in the spring, leaks are likely. To proactively protect your shingles, do the following.

How to Winterize Your Roof

1. Insulate & Ventilate the Attic

While pretty to look at, ice dams bring more harm than good to your roof. They form when the snow melts on your warm roof surface, fails to run off, then solidifies to create a freezing edge. When ice builds up, it obstructs the flow of melted snow and leads to water intrusion into your home.

One common culprit for ice dams is your attic. Lack of insulation and poor ventilation result in the accumulation of hot air inside, making your roof warmer than usual.

To avoid this, make sure the attic is well-ventilated to even out its temperature. Check the intake and exhaust vents for any debris—anything that blocks them translates to significant temperature fluctuations. If your insulation is thin or water-logged, have it replaced.

2. Clear Out the Gutters

Another reason for ice buildup on the roof is a clogged gutter. Debris-filled gutters and downspouts prevent melted snow from draining off the roof, eventually resulting in backups and water seepage. Moreover, the extra weight from the ice can cause the gutters to sag or collapse over time.

Make it a point to clean the gutters and clear out possible obstructions. Also, consider installing guards or mesh to keep out debris and trim nearby branches that can drop leaves and branches onto the roof during windy or wintry weather.

3. Opt for an Inspection

As a preventive measure, schedule a roof inspection. A leaking, sagging, or hole-riddled roof makes it more vulnerable to ice damage in the cold-weather season, so professionals should address these early. Refrain from going the DIY route at the expense of saving a few bucks. Roof work is hazardous as it is and more so during winter.

With the above tips, you can keep ice damage at bay this winter. But if there is already a leak or missing shingles, trust the seasoned professionals at AMCAT Roofing in Durango, CO, to help. As a full-service roofing contractor, they offer top-notch roof repairs and replacements in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. Call (970) 799-6759 to request an inspection or learn more about why they’re the preferred roof company online.