Your roof maintenance checklist for the new year
As winter approaches, your roof will encounter wind, rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. To ensure that it functions properly, follow this maintenance checklist before the new year arrives.
Clean your gutters
Your gutters collect the water that runs off of your shingles. It then directs it away from your home to protect your foundation, siding, and other features. Unfortunately, over time, gutters tend to collect debris, which creates clogs. Clogs cause the water to back up under your shingles, where it can cause severe damage. This is especially true if it freezes.
By cleaning your gutters before the new year arrives, you’ll help the water will flow freely. Make sure the gutters are secure, and check areas where they meet a wall at a right angle. You may need to install gutter splash guards or kick-out flashing in these vulnerable areas. You can find professional gutter experts in your area at The Home Mag’s new Marketplace.
Trim overhead branches
Large trees that grow near your home are beautiful, but you need to have a professional trim them each fall to avoid potential damage to your roof. If branches touch your roof, they can scrape its surface when the wind picks up. This can damage or puncture the shingles. Professional trimming also allows you to avoid falling branches during storms, which can damage your roof.
Insulate your attic
While insulating the attic may not sound like roof maintenance, it certainly affects the condition of your roof. If you live in an area where below-freezing temperatures are normal during the early months of the year, your roof is susceptible to ice dams. These can severely damage your roof. They occur when snowmelt refreezes along the edge of the roof.
The best way to avoid ice dams is to make sure you have proper insulation and ventilation in your attic. This helps your roof maintain a consistent temperature. If freezing temperatures are a big problem where you live, consider installing heating cables along the edge of your roof, too.
Fix leaks immediately
Watch for signs of a leak, such as water stains on your walls or ceiling. Have a roofing company promptly fix any leaks you find. Ignoring them can result in major structural damage to your roof and home, including mold growth.
Clean your roof
Just like the gutters, your roof can collect dirt and debris. It’s important to remove branches, twigs, and other items that can potentially damage it. Once debris scratches and tears your shingles, your roof is vulnerable to risks such as water damage.
By tackling these simple tasks, you’re helping your roof continue to be beautiful and functional. For more tips on roof maintenance, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
