Winter means lovely, snowy lawns and quality time with your family over the holidays. It can also spell trouble for your roof without the right precautions. While a roofing contractor will resolve any issues that occur, you can take a few steps to prevent them. Here are a few tasks to handle before the season arrives.

How to Avoid Common Roofing Problems This Winter 

1. Leaks

Snow can crack or push off loose and damaged shingles, causing leaks and sagging. Missing flashing or worn caulk around skylights, vents, and chimneys can also lead to leaks.

A roofing contractor will identify these issues during an inspection to help you avoid damage. It may also be possible to spot missing shingles and flashing when you inspect your roof from the ground. In this case, schedule prompt repairs.

2. Ice Dams 

Warm air from inside your home will rise. Without insulation, it can melt the snow piled on your roof. The water runs to the cold edges and refreezes, creating ice dams that weigh down the gutters.

Aside from bending the gutters, ice dams can trap moisture against your shingles, leading to water damage. Icicles can also break off and pose safety concerns. Have an insulation contractor ensure that your home is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent ice dams.

3. Moisture Buildup 

If moisture seeps through cracks in your shingles or soffits, it can result in mold, rot, and discoloration in the attic. Attic condensation also occurs in the winter without proper insulation.

Again, effective attic ventilation and insulation will prevent these problems, dispersing heat and humidity. You can also run a dehumidifier in your attic to keep humidity levels adequate. Most experts recommend keeping levels between 30% and 60%.

 

To prepare your roof for the season, contact BullDog Contractors. Boasting more than 100 years of combined experience, their insulation and roofing contractors will ensure your home remains in good condition all winter long. They also assist with insurance recovery if your property sustains damage despite your best efforts. Learn more about their work with roofing online. To schedule an appointment, call their Lakeville, MN, location at (612) 799-8707, or reach Centennial, CO, at (303) 991-2487.