Winter is coming, and it’s time to prepare your roof! When it gets cold, it’s important to make sure your house stays warm and cozy. 

One big part of this is making sure your roof is ready for the winter weather. Your roof helps keep out the snow, rain, and cold air, so it’s important to take care of it. Here are some easy steps to help you prepare your roof for the winter.

1. Check for Damaged Shingles

Shingles are the pieces of material that cover your roof. They help keep water out. Sometimes, shingles can get damaged or go missing. 

Before winter, look at your roof to see if any shingles are cracked, broken, or missing. If you find any damaged shingles, it’s a good idea to get them fixed. This will help keep water from getting into your house.

Platinum offers shingle repair services that you can learn more about here.

2. Clean Your Gutters

Gutters are the channels that run along the edge of your roof. They help move water away from your house. During the fall, leaves and sticks can get stuck in the gutters. 

When the gutters are full, water can’t flow through them properly. This can cause water to spill over and damage your roof. 

To prepare your roof for the winter, call Platinum professionals to clean out all the leaves and debris from your gutters.

3. Trim Overhanging Branches

If you have trees near your house, check for branches that hang over your roof. During a winter storm, these branches can break and fall onto your roof, causing damage. 

To prevent this, trim any branches that are too close to your roof. This will also help keep leaves and sticks out of your gutters.

4. Inspect the Attic

Your attic is the space inside your house below the roof. It’s important to check your attic before winter. Look for any signs of leaks or water damage. If you see any wet spots or stains, it means water is getting in through your roof. 

You should also check for proper insulation. Insulation helps keep your house warm. If your attic doesn’t have enough insulation, it can make your house colder. As a result, your heating bills will increase.

5. Check for Proper Ventilation

Ventilation helps air move through your attic. This is important because it prevents moisture from building up. 

Moisture can cause mold and damage your roof. Make sure your attic has enough vents and that they are not blocked. This will help keep your attic dry and your roof in good condition.

6. Seal Any Cracks or Gaps

Sometimes, small cracks or gaps can form around your roof. These can let cold air and water into your house. Check for any cracks or gaps around the edges of your roof, chimneys, or skylights. 

Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings. This will help keep your house warm and dry.

If you suspect improper sealing on your roof, contact Platinum today for an inspection.

7. Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are covers that go over your gutters. They help keep leaves and debris out, so you don’t have to clean your gutters as often. 

Installing gutter guards can be a good way to prepare your roof for the winter. They can help prevent your gutters from getting clogged and overflowing.

At Platinum, we offer top-tier gutter guards that will keep your gutters cleared and winter-ready.

8. Check for Ice Dams

Ice dams are big chunks of ice that form at the edge of your roof. They can prevent melting snow from draining off your roof. This can cause water to back up and leak into your house. 

To prevent ice dams, make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. You can also use a roof rake to remove snow from the edge of your roof after a big snowstorm.

9. Get a Professional Inspection

Sometimes it’s hard to see all the problems with your roof. A professional roofer can help. They have the tools and experience to find any issues you might miss. 

It’s a good idea to have a professional inspection for your shingle or metal roof before winter. They can fix any problems and make sure your roof is ready for the cold weather.

10. Check Flashing

Flashing seals the joints on your roof, such as around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Over time, flashing can become loose or damaged. This can let water into your house. 

To prepare your roof for the winter, check the flashing to make sure it is in good condition. If it is loose or damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced.

11. Clear Off Debris

Sometimes, leaves, sticks, and other debris can collect on your roof. This can trap moisture and cause damage.

 Before winter, clear off any debris from your roof. Be careful if you need to climb up on your roof. It might be a good idea to have an adult help you.

12. Look for Signs of Pests

Animals like squirrels and birds sometimes like to make their homes on your roof. This can cause damage and let cold air and water into your house. 

Look for signs of pests, such as holes or nests. If you see any, you may need to call a professional to remove the animals and fix the damage.

13. Check the Roof’s Structure

Over time, the structure of your roof can become weak. Damage or age causes your roof to be weak. Look for signs of a weak structure, such as sagging or cracks. If you see any, it’s important to get it fixed right away. 

A strong roof structure is important for keeping your house safe during the winter and we’re here to give it to you.

14. Prepare for Snow Removal

In areas where it snows a lot, it’s important to be ready to remove snow from your roof. Heavy snow can put a lot of weight on your roof and cause damage.

 Have a roof rake ready to remove snow after big storms. Be careful when removing snow, as it can be dangerous.

15. Review Your Insurance

Sometimes, even if you do everything to prepare your roof for the winter, damage can still happen. 

It’s a good idea to review your homeowner’s insurance to make sure it covers roof damage. This can help prepare you for if anything goes wrong during the winter.

Getting your roof ready for the winter is an important task. It helps keep your house warm and dry and can prevent costly damage. 

By following these steps, you can prepare your roof for the winter and enjoy a cozy home all season long. Stay warm and safe this winter!

At Platinum Home Exteriors, we’re here to help you with all your roofing needs. Our experts can provide a thorough inspection, repairs, and advice. 

We will ensure that your roof is winter-ready. Don’t wait until it’s too late—request a free quote with us today. Trust Platinum Home Exteriors to keep your home safe and sound all winter long!