The Winter season has finally arrived here in New England, marking a sharp decline in both temperature and daylight. Homeowners are smart to prepare themselves for the likes of snow, ice, and brisk winds, which can all put your home’s structural integrity to the test. Anything from your roofing system to your siding can easily become vulnerable to the Winter elements, and as such, it’s smart to perform maintenance on your home before that first snowfall arrives. In this article, we’ll be giving you some tips on how to prepare your roof for Winter. If that sounds interesting, keep reading down below for more information!
Reduce the Threat of Dead Trees & Branches
Though Winter weather doesn’t necessarily mean high winds, snowstorms and blizzards can certainly deliver impactful gusts to your home or property. If you live in a heavily wooded area or are surrounded by the likes of dead trees, high wind may be a potential danger to the safety of your home. Dead trees, if vulnerable enough, can fall or shed its branches unto your home, causing possible damage to your roofing system.
To stop the threat of falling trees or branches, it may be smart for homeowners to trim back trees and branches that pose as a threat. Doing this will most likely require the use of a ladder, so it’s recommended that you use a partner and follow all proper safety guidelines.
Check Your Gutter System
It might be easy to overlook your gutter system, as it’s not often talked about when it comes to general home maintenance, but inspecting it can save your roof from further problems down the road. You’ll want to begin by removing any leaves or organic matter that still remains from Fall, as they can cause blockage and obstruction in your gutters. This prevents rainwater from properly flowing off of your roof, and if not treated properly, can cause water damage to your roof. In addition to this, if leaves sit on your roof for too long, they can cause rot and other damage to the surface.
Conduct A Roof Inspection
Especially if you are skeptical of your roof’s performance, a roof inspection is never a bad idea. The Winter season can bring about copious amounts of snow and ice, making a roof inspection unfavorable and possibly dangerous. As such, it’s smart for homeowners to conduct a roof inspection before the difficult elements of Winter arrives. With an inspection, you’ll be able to gauge any existing problems with your roofing system. If you notice anything such as missing shingles or sagging on your roof, it might be smart to proceed by calling a professional roofing contractor for repairs or replacements.
Looking for a Quality Roofing Contractor?
If you’re looking for a reliable roofing contractor in Massachusetts, Rhode Island or New Hampshire, there’s no better place to call than Bay State Exteriors! We specialize in replacing and installing roofing, gutters, siding and even windows. We always take the proper steps to ensure the installation goes smoothly, safely and professionally. To upgrade your property and preserve your home’s health, contact us today!