Tips for Winter Roof Protection

January 14, 2022

We’ve reached that time of year when the elements – and the darkness – usher us indoors to hibernate until spring. Your home is likely warm and dry, thanks in large part to what’s covering it – the roof. These tips for winter roof protection can help ensure your roof is healthy and secure this season.

Check the Attic

Regulating the temperature in your attic helps to keep energy costs down while also preventing moisture buildup, which can lead to bigger issues. A properly insulated attic helps keep your home warm during the cold winter months. What’s more, attic insulation prevents the heated air inside meeting with the cold air outside, which can create damaging condensation.

Also, be sure your attic is properly ventilated for the same reason. Circulating air keeps moisture from building up and damaging your roof, interior walls, and ceilings. Roof vents and soffits should be in good condition and free from obstructions, like insulation or items stored in the attic.

Gut the Gutters

Keeping gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris will help protect your roof from potential winter dangers, such as ice dams. When gutters are full of gunk, they’re unable to properly collect and divert water away from your home. Instead, melting snow builds up, and the water can seep under your shingles. If it then refreezes, ice dams form and cause roof damage as well as interior water stains and other damage that can be costly to repair.

Rake Your Roof

Another way to provide winter roof protection is to use a roof rake to clear snow from the edge of the roofline. This is especially important if your roof has a low slope and has accumulated six or more inches of snow. Use a roof rake with a telescoping handle to gently remove snow from the roof’s edge. This will help keep ice dams from forming and wreaking havoc on your roof and, by extension, your home.

Keep Trees Trimmed

If you have trees close to your home, watch for falling leaves, branches, and other debris. This can clog gutters, which leads to draining issues that can damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Large branches that are dying or too heavy can come loose and fall during a heavy snowstorm or strong winds, which can also damage shingles or harm the structural integrity of your roof. Do your best to keep any trees close to the house trimmed to prevent potential disasters.

Trust the Roofing Experts

These tips for winter roof protection are just some ways you can keep your home safe from the elements all season long. If you notice issues with your roof or other exterior components of your home, don’t hesitate to call a trusted professional, like the experts at WeatherTek Exteriors. We can inspect your roof, windows and doors, and siding to ensure your home is buttoned up for the long winter. Contact us today with questions or to schedule an appointment.