As winter slowly approaches, it’s best to use the warmer fall months to prepare your roof. Winterizing your home and your roof, in particular, will ensure you and your family stay warm. But, this is not the only benefit. By following the checklist below and preparing your roof, you can protect it from damage caused by rain and sometimes, Georgia snow.
6-Step Checklist For Winterizing Your Roof
1. Conduct A Roof Inspection
A good place to start with your winterizing checklist is with a roof inspection. This is the best way to determine the condition of your roof and whether any repairs are necessary.
You must conduct a thorough inspection. Below are important areas to inspect when preparing for the harsh winter weather.
Shingles
Shingles prevent water from entering your roofing system. It is therefore vital that they are in good condition. When inspecting the shingles, you should check if any are missing, broken, or not installed properly. It may be a good idea to consult a roofing professional to assist you.
Flashing
Flashing is a thin metal sheet used to prevent leaks. It is usually placed around areas prone to leaks such as chimneys. It’s important that this sheeting is not damaged, bent, or rusted.
Sealant
Most roofs have asphalt sealants. When inspecting your roof, make sure the sealant has not dried out or cracked, and that there is a generous amount.
Valleys
Valleys form where two roof slopes meet. These are particularly vulnerable areas on a roof, especially in winter. You must make sure they are in good condition and that they are clean. Often, leaves build up along valleys and this can stop water from running off your roof.
2. Check Inside Your Home
There may be signs inside your home that your roof is damaged. Therefore, you should check your walls and ceilings for moisture stains, mold, or leaks. This may be an indication of a bigger problem on your roof that needs repairing.
3. Repair And Replace
After conducting the inspection, you may notice some areas of your roof need repairs. If so, it’s best to start on these sooner rather than later to prevent further damage. It’s always a good idea to contact a roofing professional to assist with any repairs or replacements. This will ensure the work is done correctly and that your roof remains in good condition.
4. Clear Out the Gutters
Gutters are an essential part of a well-functioning roofing system. If your gutters are damaged or clogged, rain and melting snow may not be able to drain properly. The build-up of water will eventually penetrate your home. This can cause damage to your roof, the foundation of your home, and even your walls and ceilings.
Your gutters should also be clean to prevent the build-up of algae. When temperatures drop, algae expand and this has the potential to damage the underlying roof materials. Therefore, if you notice algae build-up on your gutters, you must take steps to remove it.
5. Trim Overhanging Branches
Winter brings with it heavy rains, strong winds, and sometimes, Georgia snow. Any overhanging branches in these conditions may break off and damage your roof. By trimming overgrown trees that pose a risk to your roofing system, you can prevent costly repairs later on.
6. Check the Attic Insulation
Insulation is an important part of a good roofing system. It also helps to keep utility bills low as it keeps the heat in your home. When winterizing your roof, check that the insulation is in good condition and that your attic is well ventilated.
If you noticed any leaks when conducting your inspection, then check for moisture and mold growth on insulation too. Any damp or moldy insulation must be removed as it will not retain heat and poses various risks to your health.
Original article from https://www.roofingbyexcel.com/winterizing-the-roof-checklist/
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