Get Your Roof Ready for Winter Weather before the Cold Winds Begin to Blow

Whether you are enjoying the hot summer days or trying your best to stay cool, before you know it, winter will be here again. Now is the time to start thinking about ways to shield your home from harsh winter weather to keep home repairs the following year to a minimum. Here are some easy ways to get your roof ready for the season to extend its life and keep your costs low.

• Get it clean. The first basic step in roof maintenance is to clean it properly. Remove tree branches that hang over the roof to keep leaves and other debris away. Sweep away and debris that has settled on the roof as it can cause moisture to settle and eventually lead to rot and mildew. This is a good time to remove any grime or rotting and wet leaves from the roof and eavestroughs.
• Inspect the roof. You will have an easier time inspecting a roof that has been thoroughly cleaned. Pay close attention to fasteners as these can become loose and weaken parts of the roof. Check for signs like cracked sealant, faded paint or rust that will tell you that the roof needs some work before the cold season.
• Check inside the home. The interior of your home can reveal many signs that your roof is not ready for winter. If your home has an attic start there as even small leaks can cause stains and lead to damage. Moisture entering through the roof can affect the insulation and create dampness in the home. Leaks can also lead to insect infestation as surfaces will become more vulnerable to burrowing. Look for holes or bits of food in these areas.
• Inspect the chimney and flashing. Make sure that your chimney cap is secure before winter arrives. The chimney masonry should also be in good shape and protected by a sealant. If the flashing looks worn, water can seep through spaces and cause damage.

Roofing experts know what to do to get your roof ready for winter and protect the interior of your home. Make an appointment early so you can go into the season with no concerns. Any money you spend to winterize your roof will be much less than you will have to spend on repairs if you neglect it.

Call us at our Maryland office at 410-877-6112 or our Delaware office at 302-793-9352 to discuss any type of roofing issue with us. Our roofing experts will inspect your roof to help ensure that it is indeed ready to face another east coast winter. We can make any necessary repairs and give you our professional opinion on the overall condition of your roof.