Keeping Your Roof Winter-Proof
The first flurries of snow have already fallen and we all know what that means: the winter season is upon us. Once we see the first snow, thoughts of replacing roofs usually get put on hold and we advise most homeowners to go into maintenance mode unless their roof cannot withstand the cold months in its current condition.
Here are some expert tips on taking care of your roof this winter to ensure your family and possessions stay safe and warm through the coldest months of the year.
Get an Inspection
It’s not too late to get a professional from Hometown Roofing to give your roof a thorough inspection to identify any red flags that could compromise it this season. This is especially important if your roof is nearing the end of its life (the typical lifespan of a roof is 15 to 20 years). If there are any deficiencies in your roof, they can still be fixed before the worst weather hits. An inspector will look for splits, separations at the seams, leaks, ridges, rust, and any other deterioration that could compromise your roof this season. If your inspector doesn’t find anything, you will have greater peace of mind going into the winter months.
Clean the Gutters
If your gutters are full of leaves, branches, and other debris from the summer and fall, it’s important to clean them out. Clogged gutters can prevent proper drainage from the roof when the snow melts. This can cause a number of problems such as cracked gutters, ice dams, and damage to the roof as a whole. If you feel comfortable getting on a ladder and cleaning out your gutters, do it now before it gets too cold. If you don’t, hire a professional to give your gutters a proper cleaning.
Keep Your Roof as Clear as Possible
After a snowstorm, it’s ideal to remove as much of the heavy snow as possible from your roof. Snow can put a lot of pressure on a roof and make it more susceptible to damage — especially if it’s nearing the end of its life or has other defects. In addition, snow-laden roofs lead to ice dams which can further damage the roof and lead to leaks inside the home. Snow slides and icicles can also be dangerous to those passing under the roof. Though it may seem like a huge pain to clear your roof after large storms, it’s well worth the time and effort.
Install a High-Quality Roof
Though you may be running out of time to get your roof replaced this year, it’s worth it to start budgeting now to get a high-quality roof installed when spring arrives. A quality roof installed by the professionals at Hometown Roofing will withstand even the worst of Nebraska winters and will keep your family safe and comfortable all year long.
Ready to get your free inspection before the first blizzard? Give us a call today!
