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Get your roof ready for the winter season now!

Roofing Repairs to Get Ready for the Winter

Tips for Identifying Roof Problems So You Can Get the Necessary Roofing Repairs Before the Start of Next Winter

Although it’s technically still summer, there’s no denying that winter is coming. If you haven’t already inspected your roof this year, now is the best time to do so. Once you’ve done a thorough inspection, you can make any necessary roofing repairs before the winter arrives.

Harsh winters can do some serious damage, so it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to the condition of your roof.

Why Roof Inspections Are Worth It

Regular roof inspections—especially after harsh weather—will extend the life of your roof. If you find and fix the relatively minor damage before it worsens, you can save plenty of time and money on more expensive roofing repairs and replacement in the future.

Water damage from leaks can turn into a costly problem if left untreated—especially when there is mold, mildew, and rot. You will also save on energy costs for heating and cooling your home with a well-insulated roof with no leaks.

Common Damage to Roofs in Winter

Ice dams and strong winds are the most common causes of damage to roofs in the winter. Ice dams occur when backed-up water pushes under the shingles and freezes. Water from melted ice and snow will also freeze and buildup so that ice dams become larger and place more of a burden on the roof. The ice dam can cause shingles to lift, crack, and fall off over time. Strong winter winds are also known to remove shingles and flashing from roofs.

What to Look For

All you need is a pair of binoculars to see your roof’s condition from ground level. If you want to get closer—and you aren’t afraid of heights— you can climb up a ladder to inspect your roof. Or you can leave the inspection to a roofing expert if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself. Here’s what to look for when inspecting your roof:

  • Broken, damaged, curled, or missing shingles;
  • Dirty or splotchy shingles—a sign that shingles have worn out and lost their granules;
  • Damaged, dented, corroded, or missing flashing that is around chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes;
  • Mold, moss, or dark spots on shingles—this is a sign of water damage; Sagging or dented gutters – since they won’t provide proper water shed away from the house;
  • Sagging or dented gutters – since they won’t provide proper water shed away from the house;
  • Dented, damaged, or missing chimney caps.

If you notice damage to your roof, complete the necessary roofing repairs immediately to prevent further damage to your roof and home. Remember, the warm summer weather is the best time for roofing repairs, so don’t put it off until the cold weather arrives. Come next winter, you will be glad you didn’t wait when your roof is surviving the cold wind, ice, and piles of snow.

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