Winter can bring heavy snowfall, ice, and other challenges that put stress on your roof. Preparing your roof in the fall can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your home is protected when the cold weather hits. Whether it’s preventing ice dams or fixing minor issues before they become major problems, our expert tips will help you keep your roof in top shape all winter long.
Look for Curves and Other Damage
Start by checking your roof and the roofline for any signs of damage, including curving and dipping. The most important thing to keep an eye out for is a sagging roofline. A sagging roof already has enough damage that it may not make it through another long winter. You risk the roof caving in and collapsing when snow and ice build up on it.
Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters are one of the leading causes of ice dams. An ice dam forms when snow and ice melt. As the liquid melts, it pools around the edge of the roof. Freezing temperatures cause the liquid to refreeze, which forms an ice dam. You may see small or large icicles hanging off the roof or the gutters. Other signs of an ice dam include dark stains on the ceiling and mold on your drywall. Cleaning the gutters of debris goes a long way to preventing ice dams.
Trim Nearby Trees
Trees are just as susceptible to ice and snow as your roof. That’s why we recommend you either trim or remove some of those trees before winter arrives. Focus on those that are closest to your home, especially those with long branches or branches that hang low. Winter storms can easily knock some of those branches loose, causing them to fall onto the roof. There’s also a chance the branches will rub against the roof and either wear down the shingles or loosen them.
Apply Roofing Sealant
Whether you have a metal roof or one that uses asphalt shingles, a roofer can apply sealant as needed. The product works on all types of roofs and does well for patch jobs. You may not want to replace your roof today because it’s too expensive, but sealant can repair some leaks and make the roof last longer. It covers gaps between shingles and any cracks you see, keeping any form of moisture out of your home, including rain and melting ice or snow.
Prepping your roof for winter requires cleaning the gutters, using sealant to repair cracks and gaps, looking for signs of damage, and trimming any trees that are close by. You don’t need to handle all this work on your own, though. Reach out to us and see how Heyn Brothers Roofing in Rochester, MN can tackle your fall and winter roof repairs.
