It’s that period of year again when the leaves start to change color, the days grow shorter, and winter approaches. This means that you should start preparing your home for the upcoming cold weather. One of the most critical things that you should do is ready your roof for the cold season. Here are some very good tips for getting your roof fully prepared for the wintertime.

Inspect Your Roof

The first step in winterizing your roof is to inspect it for damage. Examine the shingles for missing or damaged pieces, and make sure the gutter guards and downpipes are clear of leaves and debris. If you discover any damage, make repairs before the winter weather arrives. If you’re unsure how to make the repairs, you should consult a roofing professional.

Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Cleaning your gutters is essential for winterizing your roof. Clogged gutters can lead to a buildup of water on your roof, which can cause damage during the winter months. Check your gutters and downspouts for any leaves or debris, and consider building gutter guards to keep them clear in the future. This maintenance is particularly important after the leaves have fallen from the trees as they could have gathered in your gutters. 

Remove Overhanging Branches

Remove any overhanging branches from your roof to avoid them breaking and causing damage during the winter. If you have trees near your house, trim them so the branches are at least six feet away from your roof. Unpruned trees account for 25% of roof damage during winter storms. This can happen for a few different reasons. Sometimes the wind can blow with such force it rips the branches off the tree or takes down the tree altogether. Snow build-up can also cause branches to break as the added weight is too much for it to handle.

Add Insulation

Another excellent way to prepare your roof for winter is to add insulation to your attic. Insulation keeps heat in your home and prevents ice formation on the roof. If you don’t have attic insulation, install it before winter arrives. This will also help keep your heating bills down as you won’t be losing all your home’s heat through the attic.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks in the attic are a major cause of ice dams. These leaks allow warm air to escape, causing snow on the roof to melt and water to leak into your home. To avoid this, seal any air leaks in your attic before winter arrives. Installing caulk, weatherstripping around doors and windows, or installing foam gaskets behind outlet covers can help.

As winter approaches, take the appropriate preparations for your roof. Do not wait until the last minute to act; it may be too late. Examine your roof for damage, clean your gutters and downspouts, trim any overhanging branches, insulate your attic, and seal any air leaks in your home. By taking these precautions now, you can help protect your roof from damage during the winter.