Wintertime can wreak havoc, not just on the streets, but on our roofs as well. A particularly bad winter hit in 1993, when heavy snow blanketed the area. The resulting two feet of snow landing on roofs seriously increased the risk of collapse. It was recommended that people remove as much as they could to prevent damage. While this extreme example doesn’t happen every winter, it’s an important reminder to be mindful of the roof over our heads!

Keep reading to learn about routine wintertime roof maintenance.

Ways To Maintain Your Roof During Winter

Remove Snow Quickly

It may look innocent, but as stated above, heavy snow can damage a roof, especially if the roof is old or in need of repair. Remove snow as soon as possible. It is necessary to check for ice as well, as it further contributes to the heaviness of snow on your roof. When left too long, ice melt creates what’s known as an ‘ice dam’, thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the eaves. When temps drop below freezing, the melted ice refreezes, resulting in a dam inside or around your gutters. This can back up any runoff precipitation, potentially causing loose shingles and even leakage.

Check For Wind Damage

Along with snow and ice, wind can also do major damage to roofs. Wind damage can rip off portions of your roof that may be hard to see, so you must check for broken, missing, or damaged shingles and other roofing materials. If not fixed, these vulnerable areas will do more than just cause leaks; they will increase the likelihood of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

Repair Flashing

Roof maintenance includes checking your existing flashing for problems. What is flashing? Flashing is a protective material fabricated from a rust-resistant metal that is applied around roof protrusions such as the base of chimneys and roof vents, as well as several other areas. Over time, it can warp and loosen, so it’s important to check this yearly. If it’s damaged, show and ice can enter your roof more freely. If too much water builds up, it can cause interior leaks.

Inspect Your Gutters

Gutters are especially susceptible to freezing precipitation. Check them regularly for signs of ice dams. A telltale sign they need cleaning is icicles hanging from them, which can mean your gutters are already plugged. If they’re filled with ice, they can weaken and be unable to sustain all the weight. This results in the gutters tearing away from your home, causing significant structural damage that can bite you in the wallet.

Check Your Attic

Routine roof maintenance isn’t only on your home’s exterior. When performing your roof maintenance, check to ensure your attic has enough insulation, which includes stable ventilation routes. Keeping the airflow consistent helps keep your roof protected.

Contact Taylor's Bestex Roofing Solutions

Need help? If you’re in the Salt Lake City or Northern Texas area, please contact us for a free roofing estimate and let our experts come out and inspect your roof. We perform storm damage repairs In addition to our installation services. You can count on us to fix any issues so that you can rest, worry-free, this winter. Don’t wait!