How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Winter is on its way for Colorado homeowners, and in some places, it’s already here! Is your roof ready for the upcoming winter weather conditions? A little preparation can help you keep your roof in great condition during the winter months to come. Here are seven ways to prepare your roof for winter now:

1. Schedule a roof inspection: As the weather begins to cool, it’s important to have a professional roofing inspection. Your roofer will look for existing damage as well as potential problem areas. Ice and snow can worsen existing problems, so it is essential to complete any necessary repairs before the harsh winter hits.
2. Check your attic insulation to prevent ice dams: Ice dams are caused by improper attic insulation. These ridges of ice form near the eaves of a roof and prevent melting snow from running off properly. In Colorado Springs, you can prevent ice dams by adding insulation to the attic floor. To learn more about ice dams, click here: Do Ice Dams and Winter Weather Damage Your Roof?
3. Stop roof leaks. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense from the elements. If you notice any water stains on your ceiling or if you see beams of light coming through the roof when checking your attic, it’s time for a roof repair. Wind, rain, snow, and ice can cause additional roof damage, so it is best to take care of these issues before winter starts. Additionally, drafts and cold spots in your home can be the result of air leaks. These drafts can account for a large portion of a home’s energy use when heat escapes the home. Roof repairs will eliminate water leaks and drafts, which can help you save money on heating bills and further roof damages.
4. Check for damaged shingles, metal flashings, and pipe flashings if you can safely access your roof. This can help you prevent snowmelt from leaking into your home. If you notice any damaged shingles or tiles, have a professional roofer replace them immediately. Missing or damaged shingles, or tiles on a tile roof, can expose your home to roof leaks and water damage. Also, look at your roof and pipe flashings. Roof flashing protects your home from water damage by diverting water from certain areas of the roof. If the roof flashings are damaged, water can seep into areas that would not normally be susceptible to leaks. Pipe flashings are more likely to crack and erode due to age and can cause roofing leaks as well. If you notice anything unusual, it is best to call a roofer for repairs.
5. Clear debris from the roof valleys. Large amounts of debris in your roof valleys can impede the flow of water. In some unusual circumstances, if you have a significant amount of debris on your roof, water can be forced into an area of the roof that would not normally be vulnerable. If you can safely access your roof, we recommend clearing any debris away. However, it is important to keep in mind that having just a few sticks or leaves on your roof is completely normal.
6. Clean your gutters. Leaves, twigs, and pine needles can accumulate in your gutters and cause blockage if you do not have gutter guards. Again, if you can safely access your roof, visually inspect the inside of your gutters. Make sure they are clear before the winter weather hits so they can do their job. Blocked gutters can lead to roof leaks and additional damage.
7. Make sure your home has proper ventilation. It’s just as important to have good ventilation in the winter as it is in the summer. Since warm air rises when your home is heated, moisture and condensation will build up in your attic if the roof does not have adequate ventilation. This can lead to condensation buildup and leaks, mold, and wood rot. Have a professional roofer assess your roof’s ventilation before winter comes.

Take care of your roof before winter to prevent leaks and other problems from coming up. Just a little work ahead of time can help you save money and protect your home from the elements. A well-maintained roof will keep your home warm and dry for years to come. Call us today at (719) 487-7663 to schedule a free roofing estimate. Our experienced roofing experts are here to help you prepare your roof for winter.