Roof Winterization Checklist

Roof Winterization Checklist

For many homeowners in the nation, winter is rapidly approaching.  Where did the summer go?  Many are asking.  It seems like each year, winter is her ebefore we know it, and we are rushing to get the winterization tasks we need to be checked off our lists.  To help you with your home's roof and ensure it is properly prepared for the cold, wet season to come, we have created a handy checklist.  Using these tips will help your roof, save energy and ensure that you and your loved ones will remain comfortable and cozy.

Repair Now

The harsh elements, whether they are rain, sleet, snow, or cold, will undoubtedly take advantage of any weakened areas or spots on your roof.  Take the time to repair any shingles that may be loose, missing, or damaged, and inspect the entire roof.  If your roof is constructed of tiles, make sure to replace any cracked, missing, or broken tiles.

Trim Nearby Tree Limbs

Healthy and unhealthy tree limbs near or in the vicinity of your roof will need to be trimmed back. No matter how healthy or unhealthy a limb may be, under the weight of snow and ice, there is the possibility of breaking and crashing down onto or even through your roof.  No one wants the headache of dealing with an emergency roof repair during inclement weather or the water damage that may occur in its wake.

Additional Weight

During the winter season, your roof finds itself victim to various forms of precipitation such as snow, sleet, and ice that, in many cases, will pile up and cause additional weight.  If your roof is in disrepair, it may quickly become weakened and could sustain massive damage.

Check Flashing

To the untrained eye, roof leaks in certain areas can be somewhat unobvious.  One area that should be inspected is your roof flashing. Check the areas where the roof and wall meet and around any vents or skylights for possible water damage and entry. Calling a professional for an inspection will ensure that they will inspect every possible area of damage.

Clean Roof and Gutters

Before each winter, make sure to clean your roof and your gutters.  During the summer months, algae and mold can develop on your roof, taking root under the shingles or tiles.  When the temperature drops, and the algae and mold freeze, there is the possibility they will expand.  The expansion could expose the underlying roof materials to inclement weather.

Your gutter system performs one of the most vital roles in the integrity of your roof.  If the system is clogged, damaged, or allowed to fall into rusty disrepair, not only the surrounding wood will be damaged, but there is the possibility of the foundation of your home suffering as well. Ensure all damaged areas of your gutters are repaired and that there are no clogs or blockages present before the first snowfall.

Attic Insulation

During the winter months, much like a blanket, your attic insulation works to help in keeping your energy costs down and your homewarm.  In the summer, the insulation works to keep your home cool and comfortable. Before winter officially sets in, inspect your attic insulation and determine the shape it is in.  You should also make sure that you measure the depth of the insulation to make sure that you have the proper R-value needed.  Remove and dispose of any moldy and damp insulation present, and ensure that the insulation is not covering any vents but is covering the eaves areas.  If loose-fill insulation is used, you must ensure that it is distributed evenly. The most straightforward method of saving energy is to ensure that insulation is added when and as needed.

Have Your Roof Inspected

Many homeowners feel very tempted to take the do-it-yourself route when attempting specific steps in winterizing their roofs.  It would be in your best interest to avoid taking the do-it-yourself route in instances such as this.  Caution should be taken when considering climbing onto and walking on a roof, as one misstep can cause you to stumble and cause serious injury.  Only professionals should be allowed on your roof to prevent any possible damage from occurring to the tiles or shingles.

If you find you need a roofing contractor in the Woodlands, Tomball, Spring, and Conroe areas, look no further than the most trusted roofing company in Texas, Service First Construction.  We offer and provide a wide range of roofing services, including roof installation, roof repair, roof maintenance, and various other construction services. Contact us today, and we would be happy to schedule an appointment time that works within your schedule to answer any questions or concerns you may have.