Your roof shingles protect your family and belongings from the elements. If rainwater somehow manages to get past them, it can result in structural damage and mold growth. Therefore, if you live in a storm-prone area, make sure to utilize the following best practices.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Stormy Weather

1. Keep Gutters Clear

Over time, gutters can accumulate dead leaves and other organic debris, causing clogs. When these channels get blocked, backed up water will pool onto the edges of your roof, causing roof shingles to curl, warp, or crumble. Alternatively, the rainwater may spill over the sides of the channels, causing rain to slide down your siding, eventually eroding the soil around your foundation.

Clean your gutters during routine spring and fall maintenance to keep these drainage pathways clear. You can also invest in leaf guards—metal or plastic filters placed over your gutters to prevent debris from entering the trough while still letting water through.

2. Fix Leaks Immediately 

Incoming water can rot the wooden supports of your roof, encourage mold and mildew growth, damage drywall, and cause paint to peel. As soon as you spot a leak or one of these symptoms, turn to a roofing contractor to request immediate service. The sooner you spot and resolve the issue, the less extensive the damage—and the cost of repairing it—will be. 

3. Watch for Overhanging Tree Limbs

During a heavy storm, winds can pick up quickly, causing tree branches to scrape across your shingles. Weaker, more brittle tree limbs may bend or break. Should a falling limb be heavy and land at the right angle, it could cause a partial roof collapse.

To prevent these issues, have large, mature trees that are near your roofline professionally trimmed. 

Anytime you are concerned about the health of your roof shingles, turn to AMCAT Roofing in Durango, CO. With a commitment to offering complimentary inspections and full-service roofing repairs, this trusted team of professionals can keep the wind and weather from accessing your home. To find out more about how they can help, visit their website. Give their office a call at (970) 799-6759 to set an appointment.