6 Steps to Maintain Your Roof in Winter
We are in full-blown winter here in snowy Colorado. There is nothing more beautiful than a fresh blanket of snow against the picturesque backdrop of the Rockies.
Unfortunately, all that ice and snow can wreak havoc on your roof. It is important to address common issues caused by winter conditions as soon as possible to avoid more expensive repairs later on.
The following are simple steps to take to keep your roof in good shape during the winter months:
1. Remove Snow As Soon As Possible*
- Snow is HEAVY. It will stress any areas of your roof that are even slightly compromised.
- When the snow melts and refreezes at night, it can create an ice dam. This will block additional runoff and backed up water can loosen shingles or even leak into the home.
*We are not suggesting you remove the snow yourself! By all means, hire a professional who is trained to deal with slippery rooftops!
2. Check Your Gutters
Your gutters are designed to collect and re-route precipitation, so that is where it will accumulate first! Ice in the gutters needs to be removed. The weight can stress the gutters to the point where they actually start pulling away from the house!
Helpful hint: if you see icicles hanging from your gutters, there is probably a precipitation build-up. Get it outta there!
3. Check Your Attic Ventilation/Insulation
If your attic is poorly ventilated it can make your roof more vulnerable to wintertime issues, including those ice dams.
4. Clear Away Debris
If a winter storm is on its way, make sure flashing, gutters, and downspouts are free of leaves, pine needles, and other debris that can collect there. This will ensure precipitation has a clear path away from the home; moisture that collects on the organic matter can also rot and lead to further damage.
5. Mitigate Wind Damage
In addition to snow and ice, winter winds in Colorado can be a nasty customer! Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles after a windstorm. These need to be replaced to avoid leaks and potential bacterial growth.
6. Get a Professional Inspection
- While you may be able to take care of some of the steps necessary to protect your roof in the winter, it is best to hire a professional to do the heavy lifting.
- If you are in the Denver area, J&K Roofing has fully certified professionals to make sure your roof is in tip-top shape for the winter.
- Your safety is our top priority. For information on our COVID safety procedures, click here.