How to Winterize Your Roof

While Charleston isn’t known for intense ice storms and blizzards, we do see the occasional snow or ice storm, and it does get fairly chilly. While you are sitting warm and toasty inside, your roof is taking the brunt of the cold winter elements. Many homeowners aren’t aware that there are things they can do to winterize their roof and prevent damages caused by the dropping temperatures and strong winds. It’s never too late to take a few precautionary steps to give your roof the help it needs to stand firm during the coldest time of the year. Here’s how to winterize your roof. 

Repair Shingles 

If you have a few missing shingles, your roof is in jeopardy of water damage during the next rain or snow. When it’s safe to get up there, replace the shingles to help ensure that your roof is protected from the elements. If you have a tile roof, replace any tiles that are cracked or broken, which could expose your roof to the cold.  

Clean The Roof 

Even if your roof is structurally sound and all the shingles are in good shape, cleaning the roof is still important. Check for algae on the roof. When temps drop and algae freezes and expands, it could damage the roof and create areas for water to seep in.  

Inspect Your Chimney 

Your chimney should be inspected at least once a year, and doing it before the winter season is a good idea. If you have a fireplace and plan on using it during the winter, make sure your chimney provides adequate ventilation and that the crown and cap of the chimney are in good condition.  

Clear Out Gutters 

Cleaning your gutters is another important element of winterizing your roof. Getting rid of leaves and debris that have collected there throughout the fall will give rain and melting ice a place to run off your roof instead of accumulating in one spot, freezing, and causing more damage.  

Cut Trees Back 

If you have low-hanging branches that could fall onto your roof during a heavy rain or snow storm, cut them back to prevent falling debris on your roof. Even if the branches don’t fall onto your roof, they could allow water to steadily drip and pool in a single spot on your roof, weakening it.  

Inspect Insulation 

Give your attic a thorough inspection before the next cold snap or heavy rain. This means getting rid of moldy or damp insulation and making sure the existing insulation covers the eaves but not the vents. Installing insulation is an easy way to keep your home warm, keep costs down, and add a layer of protection between your roof and your attic.  

Let RoofBoyz, LLC Winterize Your Roof 

This winter, give your roof the attention it needs to protect your home and your family from ice, rain, wind, and snow. There’s no need to do it on your own. RoofBoyz, LLC is an expert residential roofing contractor serving in and around the Charleston area. We have over 15 years of experience and are happy to help prepare your roof for winter. 

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