How To Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Winter is right around the corner and in Whatcom County that can mean periods of snow, icy winds, and freezing temperatures that can push your roof to its limits. Ensuring your roof is in good shape before winter storms arrive can prevent you from dealing with leaking, costly repairs, and even structural harm. A roof in good shape can mean the difference between a cozy, dry home and unexpected repairs that are difficult to handle in the middle of bad weather. In this blog post we discuss how to prepare your roof for winter so you can rest easy knowing your home will be protected and dry all winter long.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Preparing your roof for winter involves careful inspection and taking care of any necessary repairs. Here is an essential checklist to guide you:

1. Inspect for Damage
   Start by looking for visible signs of damage to your roof. In particular, check for missing, loose, or cracked shingles, which let moisture seep into your home and create leaks. Damaged shingles are going to get worse under the weight of snow or when they are exposed to freezing and thawing cycles.
2. Clean Your Gutters
   It is important to clear out your gutters and downspouts before winter. Leaves and debris blown in during Whatcom County’s legendary fall wind storms can clog gutters, causing water to back up and freeze. When water has nowhere to drain, it can lead to ice dams, which damage shingles and can even cause interior leaks.
3. Check Flashing and Seals
   Flashing, which is the metal material placed around vents, chimneys, and other roof openings, plays a vital role in keeping water out of your house. Over time, flashing can become loose or damaged so it’s important to check that all flashing and seals are secure to prevent any unwanted leaks during the winter.
4. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
   Overhanging branches may not seem like a potential issue, but they can become a major risk when weighed down with ice or snow. It is a good idea to trim back these branches to prevent them from breaking off and potentially damaging your roof.
5. Inspect Roof Vents and Ventilation
   A well-ventilated attic will keep your attic dry and help to keep ice dams from forming. People often wonder, “Should you cover roof vents in the winter?” Typically, the answer is no, because covering roof vents can trap moisture and heat inside, leading to mold growth and ice dams. It’s best to make sure that vents are free from obstructions and functioning properly.
6. Examine the Attic Insulation
   A properly insulated attic keeps your home warmer, reduces heating costs, and prevents condensation from building up. Poor insulation can lead to ice dams on the roof’s exterior, which can damage shingles and gutters over time.
7. Repair or Replace Damaged Shingles and Roof Decking
   Don’t leave damaged shingles or roof decking. Minor repairs can prevent a small problem from escalating into a major leak or collapse under heavy snow.

Winterizing your roof is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your home. Use our tips for how to prepare your roof for winter to make sure your bases are covered. Taking the time to prepare your roof before winter storms start can prevent unexpected issues, save money on expensive repairs, and ensure your home is safe and comfortable over the winter months. If you’re ready to winterize your roof, reach out to a professional contractor who can help keep your home safe through the coldest months of the year.

Why You Should Consider Hiring a Roofing Contractor for a Pre-Winter Roof Inspection

If you’re planning to inspect your roof to identify and handle any needed repairs before winter, you may want to work with a licensed roofing contractor to ensure the job is done right. Experienced roofing professionals have the required safety skills and equipment to handle the risks of climbing onto sloped surfaces that may have become slippery due to rain, ice, or snow.

Because of their knowledge of roofs and roof repairs, roofers can provide a more thorough inspection than the average homeowner, picking up on hidden issues such as weak decking or moisture damage that can become worse in winter. They can also provide preventive services, such as resealing, replacing shingles, and installing heating cables to reduce the risk of ice dams and leaks.

Many roofing companies offer a free roof inspection. If your roof does end up needing repairs, you may ultimately save money because of catching the issue early before it becomes a major problem. If you want your roof truly winter-ready, getting a professional to help is invaluable.

Trust Skyline Roofing & Construction for Your Roof Repair Needs

At Skyline Roofing & Construction our roofing professionals always strive to add value to your home or business for the long term – that includes installing quality roofing and maintaining your roofing investment. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation for a new roof, roof repair, roof maintenance, or roof cleaning services. Skyline Roofing is located in Bellingham, WA and we presently serve Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties.

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