No matter the season, nobody wants to deal with a leaky roof. However, that is especially true during the winter, when snow and ice accumulation can cause major issues. While you can’t control the weather, there are some simple steps you can take to make sure your roof is protected from leaks when it gets cold out. Although it’s easy to lose track of roof maintenance tasks, it could cost you big bucks in the long run. 

Keep Your Gutters Clean

It’s simple – clean gutters help prevent roof leaks. Leaves, tree branches, and other debris can clog your gutters and stop water from properly flowing away from your home. This can cause backups, where water pools on your roof and begins to leak. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution. Make sure you clean your gutters at least twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall). And, if they are damaged or aging, consider replacing them with new ones.

Schedule Annual Roof Inspections

The reality is that a professional roofing company will be able to spot things around your property that you can’t. After all, it’s their job. Your roofer will catch potential issues before they escalate into something major and will take the necessary steps to ensure your roof is ready to handle the cold winter months.

Check Your Attic’s Ventilation

Your attic needs to have good ventilation to be able to support your roof throughout the winter. Before the cold months start, take the time to make sure that its temperature is well-regulated and that there isn’t moisture buildup, which can cause issues like ice dams.

Trim Nearby Trees

Look at all the trees around your roof and check for any overhanging branches that could break away when the temperature drops. If branches snap and get in your gutters or hit your roof, they could cause a lot of damage.

Repair/ Replace Damaged Shingles

Now is the time to repair/ replace any damaged or missing shingles on your roof. The odd broken or lost shingle here and there might not seem like a big deal, but they can lead to significant leaks further down the road. Consider contacting your local roofing company, who can assess the condition of all your shingles and determine which ones need attention. 

Schedule Snow Removal

Don’t let snow build up on your roof. Snow can get very heavy, and if you don’t remove it then it puts a lot of stress on the roof, which can cause preventable damage. Regular snow removal will help you avoid this issue and keep your roof in good shape all winter long.

Contact Phil DiBello Roofing for Expert Roof Maintenance!

At Phil DiBello Roofing, we are experts at roof maintenance and have decades of experience to show for it. Our team will help you make sure that your home is completely prepared this winter season and take the time to protect your roof from avoidable damage. While the cold months can be hard on your roof, there are ways to protect it from needing an emergency roof repair or roof replacement. All you need to do is be proactive and contact us to handle the rest.