Get Ready Now: Preparing A Roof For Winter
As the weather outside gets colder and the days grow shorter, it’s essential to start thinking about preparing a roof for winter. This preparation is especially true if you live in an area with harsh winters including snow and ice. Homeowners should consider winterizing their roofs as the temperatures drop and winter weather rolls in. Winter roof damage is not something homeowners need to face when temperatures drop and holiday stress is on the rise.
One of the most critical parts of preparing a roof for winter is ensuring it is in good condition and can withstand the elements. Matute Roofing, a trusted commercial and residential roofing expert, knows the importance of proper roof maintenance and weather preparation. Our trusted team lets you enjoy the rest of your fall and winter without worrying about a leaky roof. Matute Roofing inspects every aspect of your roof to get your home ready for holiday guests or winter temps. Let’s start your project today by scheduling your maintenance appointment or repair project at 973-618-6489.
Winter-proof Your Roof Before The Cold Sets In
Check for Damage and Make Any Needed Repairs
Before the winter weather hits, inspect your roof for any damage that may have occurred over the summer or fall. Look for loose or missing shingles, cracks or splits in the shingles or any other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, now is the time to make repairs. Matute Roofing‘s team is here to help prepare a roof for winter before significant weather approaches. Repairing minor problems can help prevent more significant issues from developing later, resulting in a more considerable dip into your pocket. Repairs also allow you to concentrate on holiday activities and not worry about if a complete roof failure is on the horizon.
Repair Damaged Flashing
One of the most common places for leaks is around the flashing. Flashing is the metal sealing where your roof meets a vertical surface, such as a chimney or skylight. Over time, the flashing can become loose or worn, which allows water to seep in and cause damage to your roof decking or insulation. If you notice any damaged or missing flashing, it’s essential to have it repaired by a certified roofing expert from Matute Roofing as soon as possible.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts are important in protecting your roof from water damage. They can’t do their job correctly when clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris. As a result, water can back onto your roof with nowhere to go, leading to leaks or even collapse. This water backup can lead to dangerous ice sheets and ice jams in the winter. These sheets can cause a dangerous situation for visitors if they become dislodged. Homeowners don’t need to worry every time they open the door and be fearful they are putting their guests at risk.
To avoid this, clean your gutters and downspouts before winter hits. Also, consider installing gutter guards to help keep them clean throughout the season. If you aren’t comfortable completing this service alone, Matute Roofing‘s dedicated team will help you avoid risking your safety and comfort while cleaning your gutters. We will finish the job quickly so you can focus on other winter activities.
Examine and Replace Old Caulking
Winter cold can cause old caulking to shrink, separate, or crack. Applying new caulking that can expand and contract in warm or cold weather creates a seal for critical junctures on your roof. The home’s interior will remain warm and dry, and your family can enjoy the cozy environment together.
New caulk retains its seal better once fully cured, but you must remove old caulking before a new application. You can scrape it with a chisel, but be careful not to penetrate the flashing or roofing membranes. Matute Roofing offers maintenance programs to help homeowners keep their roofs in top-notch condition, and you feel secure knowing that your roof is well maintained.
Trim Back Trees and Shrubs
If trees or shrubs are near your home, now is the time to trim them. Overhanging branches can damage your roof if they fall during a winter storm. They can also provide a way for squirrels and raccoons to get onto your roof, which can cause even more damage.
Homeowners need to be aware of the dangers of walking on their roofs. Shingles cannot withstand the excess weight. Trimming and branch removal must be done from the outside edges of the roof. If a branch has fallen to the middle of the roof, be cautious when removing the branch and do it as quickly as possible. Matute Roofing encourages you to enjoy the peace of mind of having a safe, clean home free of potential hazards.
Improve Attic Ventilation When Preparing a Roof For Winter
The roof sits on top of the attic, and proper attic ventilation is essential to prevent ice from accumulating on the roof. There is a trick to check the attic’s ventilation. First, close all ingress openings in the attic. Then, hold a piece of tissue paper up toward the exhaust vents. If you do not see air movement, there is inadequate ventilation, or the intake vents are blocked. A shift in insulation could cause this, or the vents may have been painted shut over the years. A quick check lets homeowners feel at ease knowing their home is well-maintained and protected from water damage.
Add or Upgrade Insulation
While preparing a roof for winter, inspect your insulation. Look for missing or damaged insulation, which can cause problems leading to ice dams and ruin your home’s optimization and energy efficiency. This inefficiency can lead to additional spending when you want to be focused on other things and expenses.
When hot air from inside the home travels to your attic space, and there is insufficient insulation to stop the heat transfer, the hot air meets the bottom of the roof deck. Once the snow on the shingles melts during the daylight and refreezes during an evening temperature drop, the melted snow turns to ice.
Matute Roofing is Here for You!
There are many ways to ensure you are correctly preparing a roof for winter. Not only will these tips extend the life of your roof, but they can also help protect your home from damage caused by the elements. A safe and healthy roof also puts a smile on homeowners’s faces and helps the holiday cheer roll in!
If you need inspections, repairs, or other roofing services, please call us at 973-618-6489.
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Choose the perfect gift for your winter season – a safe and secure roof!