With freezing temperatures comes a lot of snow and ice during Midwest winters. These extreme conditions can cause a lot of damage to many different areas of your home, especially your roof if it has not been properly maintained.
We have previously highlighted several issues that winter presents to the condition of your roof – here are several ways you can minimize and even prevent damage done to your roof during the winter season.
Roof inspection. Many people don’t realize that their roof needs repair until severe damage has already been done. Inspecting your roof several times a year will allow you to catch a problem early, making for less expensive and extensive repair work. You can either inspect the roof yourself (if you know what to look for), or have a professional contractor come take a look.
Ventilation. We have stressed on several occasions the importance of proper roof ventilation. If you notice that your home is extremely warm during the summer and extremely cold during the winter, it is likely due to poor ventilation. When the roof or attic is improperly ventilated, leaks and mold can occur.
Watch out for tree branches. If your yard has many large trees with branches that hang over your home, you should make sure to remove weak, broken or low-hanging limbs that could potentially scrape or fall onto the roof. Other debris that may come from the trees, such as pinecones, leaves and twigs could clog the gutters.
Clear gutters. When winter is done (we are already ready for that!) and all the snow and ice begin to melt, they need a place to go, which is why your gutters are so essential. Make sure there isn’t any debris clogging the gutters, so that water can efficiently flow down from your roof rather than leak through the ceiling!
Remember that whenever doing work on your roof to follow proper safety precautions. If you don’t feel comfortable up on your roof, don’t risk it – call a professional.
Courtesy of PR Log
http://www.prlog.org/11813447-roofing-tips-in-the-winter-season.html