Do you know how to get your roof ready for winter?
After a long, hot and humid summer, temperatures are starting to cool here in Dayton. As we begin to enjoy all the activities that come with a crisp fall season, we can’t forget that winter is just around the corner. Ohio’s winters come with unpredictable snow, ice, rain, strong winds and frigid temperatures. To prepare for these conditions, the Dayton roofers at JW Roofing recommend taking preventative steps to winterize your home, including your roofing system. This is why we encourage you to include the following tips in your to-do list as you prepare your property for winter in Dayton:
Clean out gutters and downspouts
By managing water drainage, gutters play a crucial role in protecting the structural integrity of your home. When debris starts to build up in your gutter and downspouts, you run the risk of ice build-up when winter temperatures hit. These build-ups are more commonly known as ice dams, and because ice is naturally heavy, these dams can remove shingles, cause water damage and even tear gutters off your home completely. As you head into the winter season, take the time to conduct a thorough cleaning of your gutters and downspouts to clear them of any mud, leaves, twigs and shingle granules that may have built up since they were last cleaned.
Trim tree branches
During these winter months, snow and ice may find shelter on exposed tree limbs and branches. Because trees can only withstand so much weight, branches can easily snap as snow and ice start to accumulate. The last thing you want is for one of these branches to fall onto your roof, so conduct some maintenance before the first snowfall occurs. We recommend trimming or cutting any limbs less than 15 feet away. In addition, examine where trees hang above your home to make sure they are high enough to not brush up against your roof’s exterior.
Inspect the attic
Believe it or not, your attic is an integral part of your roofing system and is often the first place you can spot a leak. So first, inspect your attic for signs of a current or past leak, such as water spots on the walls or ceiling, wet or rotten roof decking, or obvious puddles or drips.
Even the most minor water spots can indicate a more significant, detrimental, leaking problem, so it’s essential to contact a roofing professional to conduct a thorough inspection and repair if you spot any signs of water damage.
Invest in a quality roof rake
Snow is heavy, which makes it dangerous to your home’s structure. Luckily, roof rakes are an easy and valuable tool for clearing your roof of excess snow or ice. The great thing about roof rakes is anyone can use them. Once snow has accumulated 6 inches or more, use the rake to push the snow up and off the roof. Just be sure to stay on the ground and be careful not to tear any shingles while doing so.
Schedule an inspection
The best way to winterize your roof is to schedule an inspection from your trusted Dayton roofers. A thorough inspection is the only way to identify any up-close damage that’s not visible to the untrained eye, such as damaged shingles or roof flashing. We recommend scheduling sooner rather than later, so you can get on the repair schedule to fix any damage before winter arrives.
Contact Dayton’s expert winter roofers
If you’re looking for reliable roofers in Dayton, Ohio, look no further than our experts here at JW Roofing. With over 35 years in the home improvement business, we know a thing or two about roof durability. Give us a call today or fill out our online form to get started with your winterization process.
