A Homeowner’s Pre-Winter Roof Checklist

With the seasons quickly changing, the most ideal time to check your roof would be before the winter sets in. It’s important to ensure that your roof is in top condition to avoid the need for repairs caused by leaks and dampness, which can lead to damage like mold and rot. In fact, the right prevention can save you a significant amount of time and money. Plus, since much of the pre-winter preparation suggested is inexpensive and quick, following this checklist should be easily attainable for homeowners.

Clear Your Roof and the Space Around It

Start by removing debris from your roof, including leaves that have accumulated in the valleys. Leaving debris on the roof makes rot more likely. Next, move onto the gutters and downspouts, cleaning them of any debris to allow water to flow freely. Finally, trim any trees close to the surface of the roof to prevent them from dropping leaves or twigs back onto the roof. Bear in mind that leaves can fall quite far from trees in heavy winds.

Inspect Your Roof

Cleaning your roof is also the perfect time to check for any damage that needs fixing. Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles that need replacing or nailing back down. Other aspects that require your attention include exposed tar paper, damaged roofing material, and flashing, gutters, or downspouts that need resealing.

A professional inspection of your roof will include an evaluation of its lifespan. This is useful to know, as you can anticipate when you’ll need a replacement — to avoid waiting until your roof is actually leaking. It’s important to note that regular maintenance like pre-winter preparation can extend the lifespan of your roof by as much as several years.

Prevent Ice Dams

If your roof is prone to ice dams, it may also be worth installing a commercial heat trace cable. This will melt snow that lands on your roof and direct the water away from your home’s foundation and to the ground.

To be certain that your roof is prepared for the winter (as well as for safety reasons), it’s always best to receive all the above from professional roofing companies. Edmonton homeowners can receive an inspection from Weatherproof Roofing. We know what to look for, including signs of wear that you may not notice if you check your roof yourself, and we can make the necessary repairs immediately. Call us to book your pre-winter roof service.