As the snow and ice start to set in, we all turn to the safety and comfort found indoors. It’s easy to forget about the constant thermal stress your roof is being exposed to. Taking preventive measures to prepare your roof now can also prevent some major headaches later on when the weather gets worse.
If you’re seeking professional roofers who can help you get your roof ready for the freezing Denver winter, Craftech Roofing is here for you.
Six Ways To Winter-Proof Your Roof
- Prevent Ice Dams
- Clean Out The Gutters, Vents, & Drains
- Inspect Your Attic
- Check The Roofline & Flashing For Damage
- Inspect The Shingles
- Remove Low-Hanging Tree Branches
1. Prevent Ice Dams
Ice buildup can cause severe damage to your roof because the sheer weight of it can loosen the shingles, lead to sagging, and cause water to enter your home. Moreover, ice dams often include icicles hanging from the side of the roof, which can cause injuries if they fall on someone.
Thankfully, there are measures your roofer can take to prevent icy roof buildup from happening. Installing heated cables, sprinkling calcium chloride on the roof, insulating your attic floor, and ventilating the ridges and eaves are some possible preventative measures worth considering.
2. Clean The Gutters, Drains, & Vents
Without proper maintenance, gutters, drains, and vents have a tendency to become filled with debris, which can lead to unwanted critter infestations and other issues. You might also want to consider having your roofer install gutter guards to minimize future debris buildup.
3. Check Your Attic For Leaks & Ventilation
When preparing your roof for the winter, it’s important not to forget about what’s underneath. Take advantage of this opportunity to check your attic for signs of roof leaks, water damage, and poor ventilation. If left unresolved, these issues can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage.
4. Check For Loose Shingles
Loose shingles could fall on someone, and damaged shingles can leave the roof exposed to the snow, leading to leaks and water damage. A professional roofing inspector can check for both of these issues and determine if any of your shingles need to be sealed or replaced.
5. Check The Roofline & Flashing
The roofline and flashing (especially around the chimney) are particularly susceptible to warping, rust, and leaks. Sometimes, what looks like a leaky roof turns out to just be leaky flashing, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo having it repaired—unresolved leaks can still lead to severe water damage that is much more costly to repair in the long run.
6. Trim Precariously-Hanging Tree Branches
If your tree has large branches anywhere near your roof, it’s essential to trim them so that they don’t fall or get blown onto your roof during a snowstorm. However, if they’re hanging directly over your roof, it’s best to hire a professional rather than risk damaging your roof in a DIY attempt.
Residential Roofing Maintenance & Repairs In Colorado
With over three decades of experience serving the Denver community, Craftech Roofing can help inspect and winterize your roof. We also offer commercial roofing, roof repair, and roof replacement services.
Let our experienced technicians do the difficult work so that you don’t have to. Be ready for winter. Contact us today for a consultation.
