When the winter season hits, you want to be ready and trust your roof will guard your house from outside conditions. Check out these tips!
1. Inspect Your Roof
- You can also take note of any visible damage you find, from broken shingles to a loose gutter.
- Make sure to check any pipe boots for cracks or tears in case they need to be replaced.
- You can also check flashings. If there appears to be an area of water entry, around sections where the roof meets the wall or around skylights and vent penetrations, it’s better to be ahead of the upcoming rain and ask a professional to give a free estimate on your roof.
- In North kitsap, Poulsbo & Bainbridge Island, waterfront homes in high wind can push rain into flashings and create leaks.
- Don’t guess on the condition of your roof. Call us to get started on an inspection and next steps.
2. Clear Debris From Roof
- With a rake and ladder, remove as much debris from the roof as possible. Focus on the valleys and top of any skylights or protrusions on your roof where there’s more build up of tree branches and leaves. This can lead to problem areas and more leaks.
- Once you have it cleared of the debris and buildup, it will be a lot easier to see any other problem areas.
3. Check and Clear The Gutters
- After clearing off your roof, next up is the gutters.
- Use gloves and a small shovel to clean out the debris. Be careful not to damage the shingles or roofing material.
- If you have a mesh gutter cover, you can remove them to see if any debris built up. These mesh covers help keep out as much debris as possible. They’re worth investing in!
4. Trim Back Tree Branches
- To reduce more debris buildup on your roof and in your gutters, consider trimming back any tree branches that hang close to your roof.
- For better results, call a professional trimmer. This guarantees you far less debris build up and a faster clean up.
5. Check For Pests
- In your attic, check for any rodents or pests invading your home. Pests can easily ruin your roof’s structure by creating openings in your roof.
- Also check any birdblocks for holes. Replace the bird blocks immediately if needed. They help keep out pests while reducing the possibility of mold in your attic for proper ventilation.
6. Insulating Your Attic
- Keep your house warmer this season by insulating your attic if you haven’t yet done so. Replace any torn or damaged insulation.
- Check your bird blocks for any insulation buildup. You’ll want these to be clear of any obstruction and the mesh needs to be intact.
- Be sure to use gloves and a mask when working in the attic. You can also hire a contractor to get the job done right and keep your house toasty in the winter.
- Baffles prevent any blown insulation from clogging your bird blocks and ventilation (soffit vent).
- Also check any birdblocks for holes. Replace the birdblocks immediately if needed.
- You can also use any household material such as leftover cardboard from gift boxes to make baffles. Staple them to the trusses to ensure no insulation gets in your bird blocks.
Hire A Pro
To ensure you get the best results this winter season, give us a call to set up a time for us to come by and get your roof prepared for the winter!
