Winter is harsh in the US, and homeowners across most states have to battle with snow. If you live in one of the snow-heavy areas like Grand Ledge, you will probably know the struggle.
Your roof is perhaps the most susceptible part of the property during the snowy season. Thankfully, doing your bit for its maintenance can help prevent costly damage.
While roof-care should be a year-round endeavor, you need to be extra conscious during these cold-weather months. Here are some recommendations to keep it operating at peak performance.
Clear Snow ASAP
The worst you can do is leave snow on your rooftop, no matter how beautiful it looks. It exerts a massive weight, which elevates the risk of damage if you let precipitation remain.
On melting, snow can cause ice dams that melt and refreeze as temperatures fluctuate. The system can loosen your shingles and create leakages eventually.
The best solution is to clear snow and ice from the area as soon as possible. You may hire a professional to do it since the surface becomes slippery due to snow.
Clean All Debris
It is crucial to ensure that your roof and elements such as flashing, gutters, and downspouts are debris-free. Ideally, you must do it before the winter storms roll in and continue through the season.
Debris like leaves, grime, and pine needles can accumulate on the surface and give extra grip to moisture once it rains and snows.
They can rot over time, causing leaks and damage. Start early by cleaning the area with a rake or broom regularly in the autumn months.
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Get a Professional Inspection
A professional inspection job before winter makes sense. These experts can detect issues and address them on time. If you live in Grand Ledge, be sure to call a seasoned Grand Ledge roofing contractor early before the snow hits.
DIY wouldn’t be the best approach to get through the season. Experts ensure safety, so hiring them is worthwhile as you have peace of mind during the festivities.
Check the Attic Ventilation
Surprisingly, roof maintenance is also about the ventilation in your attic. A poorly ventilated or insulated attic increases exposure to the winter elements. The risk of ice dams runs higher.
Check your attic before winter and ensure it has proper routes for ventilation and sufficient insulation. Consistent airflow in the attic goes a long way in protecting your roof during the season.
Remediate Wind Damage
Winter in Grad Ledge is windy, and your roof has to bear the brunt even more. You must make addressing wind damage a priority. Look for signs of damage, including broken, missing, and damaged shingles.
Not remediating them doubles the risk of damage when another storm hits the area. These weak spots can cause leaks and serve as breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and bacteria. The last thing you will want to deal with is seasonal allergies caused by these unhealthy elements.
Winter roof maintenance and care require professional expertise. Skip the DIY approach as it will cost you more money in the long run. Call experts and set things right on time.
