Cold Weather Roof Maintenance

Once winter gets here, cold weather roof maintenance is essential, to save on potentially costly problems and repairs. The following tips will help you to make sure your roof is secure and safe:

Inspecting Your Roof

Inspecting your roof just before the cold weather arrives is a good idea, and as the shingles are the most important defense against damage, firstly check these for cracks or breakages. Check your chimneys, flashing and other vents and fixtures and also scrape off any accumulated debris or algae; this can damage roof shingles.

Maintaining Your Gutters

Water is directed down your gutters by the shingles, making the gutters one of the most important parts of your house. You can prevent water damage to your property and even potential flooding, by keeping gutters clear and unblocked. Water can also freeze in your gutters during colder weather, which can stop water from flowing off the roof. Water on the roof can then freeze, causing expensive damage to the roof and the structure of your house.

Trim And Pare

Trees can shed limbs as well as leaves during the fall, and the biggest cause of damage to roofs is the damage caused by tree limbs falling on to them. High winds during the colder months can make it far more likely that you experience roof damage due to falling tree branches. One way to prevent this potentially costly damage is to make sure that you are routinely inspecting the trees and bushes around your home, especially any that hang over the roof of your house. If you see any limbs or branches that are hanging directly over your roof, you should remove them; however, unless you have the experience and the right equipment to do this, it is strongly recommended that you use the services of a professional company. They will be able to cut off only those dead or dying branches that are a threat to your roof and your home.

You may be used to cleaning the inside of your home during the spring, and it is a good habit to get into to make a point of cleaning your home's exterior during the fall, especially the roof. You can keep your home safe and dry and maintain the value of your home by practicing basic cold weather roof maintenance, including removing dead tree limbs, cleaning out rain spouts and gutters and generally checking your roof for any visible damage.


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