Winter weather is tough on roofs. Ice, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles can speed up wear and cause leaks. A few simple steps in fall can help your roof make it through the cold months in good shape.
Clean gutters and downspouts
Clogged gutters hold water that can freeze and back up under shingles. Clean them after leaves fall and make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation. Consider gutter guards if you have heavy tree cover.
Trim overhanging branches
Branches can scrape shingles in wind and drop loads of snow onto the roof. Trim any limbs that hang over the roof to reduce damage and improve sunlight and airflow.
Inspect flashings and seals
Have a professional check flashings around chimneys, vents, and skylights, and reseal any cracked or loose areas. These are common leak sources once ice and snow build up.
Check attic ventilation
Good ventilation keeps the attic cooler and reduces ice dams. Make sure intake and exhaust vents are clear and balanced. If you’ve had ice dam problems before, ask your roofer about improvements.
Schedule an inspection before the first freeze so you have time to make repairs. Summit Roofing can assess your roof and recommend any needed work.