4 Tips to Prevent a Roof Leak this Winter

Most of us have a routine for when the summer ends and the days start to get cooler. This is the point in the year when we take out our winter clothes and begin thinking about getting our homes ready for the ice and snow. Ensuring that your roof is in top condition requires a few basic steps that can be easily integrated into your fall maintenance routine.

Roof leaks are a common, destructive problem faced by homeowners. Cold winter weather can make a roof leak worse due to the expansion and contraction of roofing materials as they freeze and thaw. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent many of the issues that might result in a leaking roof by following a few simple tips. Consider the following:

1 – Have Your Roof Inspected

Having your roof inspected before the weather turns cold can save you many hundreds – or thousands – of dollars in repairs. Visual inspections can be made by any homeowner from the ground.  A closer look at the details atop the roof requires safety training and the proper equipment to prevent an accident.  Professional roof contractors have the training and experience to pick up on issues that you may overlook.

2 – Clear Any Low-Hanging Branches

Call in a professional to trim the branches that overhang your home. A fallen limb, whether because of wind or a buildup of snow and ice, can cause extensive damage to your roof. Eliminating overhanging branches will help to prevent the need for expensive roof repairs later on.

3 – Clean Your Roof

If your property has a lot of trees and other vegetation, you may find that your roof gets covered with leaves, acorns and other debris during the fall. Removing debris as soon as possible will prevent moisture from getting trapped on your shingles, where it leads to rot and premature deterioration.

4- Clean Your Gutters

The risk of ice damage increases when gutters are clogged with leaves and other debris. Without the ability to efficiently drain water away from your roof, a clogged gutter system allows water and ice to back up, leading to possible ice dam issues and gutter failure.

Local Help Available

For help with your roof repair and maintenance needs, contact Tri County Roofing and Siding.

[button link=”https://www.tricoexteriors.com/roof-repair-maintenance/” target=”self” color=”#b20000″ text=”light”]Roof Repair Services[/button]