When winter arrives, the cold temperatures and harsh storms present unique challenges for homeowners trying to protect their roofing. Luckily, there are preventative measures that keep homes safe during winter. Follow these maintenance tips with the help of a roofing contractor to ensure your home is protected this season.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

1. Replace Missing Shingles

A roof with damaged or missing shingles provides insufficient protection from extreme winter weather. During an inspection, have a contractor take note of any pieces that need to be repaired or replaced. Scheduling repairs will ensure warm air isn’t escaping through the roof and will prevent heating bills from increasing, as well as rain or snow from seeping in and causing water damage. 

2. Secure the Flashings

The flashing installed around the chimney, vent pipes, and the roof's valley seal off gaps prone to leaking. Over time, they can become loose or damaged and lose their effectiveness at keeping moisture out. Hire a roofing contractor before winter arrives to secure the flashing by re-plastering it with plastic cement.

3. Check the Ventilation

Sunlight hitting the roof during the winter months heats the air in the attic. Without adequate ventilation, warm air can't escape, so it condensates and causes moisture and mold damage in the attic.

It also causes any snow or ice on the roof's exterior to melt and refreeze when temperatures drop again, which increases the risk of ice dams forming. Have a professional check the vents for blockages and install extra insulation to keep the roof safe all season long.

4. Clean Out the Gutters

Make sure that the moisture from rain, snow, and ice drains away from your home properly by cleaning out the gutters in the fall. Debris like sticks and leaves should be removed so that they don’t weigh down the structure. This will help avoid the water from pooling and possibly causing foundational damage.

5. Trim Back Trees

Snow and ice can weigh down tree limbs. Ensure the safety of your property by having any nearby trees trimmed back at least 10 to 30 feet away from the house, other buildings, and vehicles. This is especially important to protect your roof from falling branches. 

 

Make sure your roof is ready for winter by contacting Bernie Brothers. Their roofing contractors have been servicing homes in Kodiak, AK, for more than 30 years. They have the experience needed to perform a thorough inspection of your roof and provide fast and reliable repairs backed by quality craftsmanship. Call (907) 481-3900 to request a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.