Preparing Your Roof For Winter

Winters in Southeastern Wisconsin are impressive with up to 50 inches of snow falls each year. Properly preparing for the season helps you protect your home from roofing problems that are common during the coldest months of the year.

Ensuring your roof is in good shape before the first snowfall is one of the best ways to prevent issues.

Here are a few things you should do before winter arrives:

Inspection

A professional roof inspection ensures that any existing damage is identified. Even a tiny breach is enough to allow melting snow to penetrate your roof. Following the inspection, have all needed repairs completed as soon as possible.

Remove Debris

Leaves, twigs, and other debris on your roof can act as a sponge for moisture. As they sit there under snow, it can weaken the roof, causing leaks, mold, and other issues.

Clean/Replace Gutters

Keeping your gutters clean is another important step in protecting your roof—not just in winter, but all year long. If your gutters tend to clog frequently, consider updating to new gutters and gutter guards that handle even heavy rainfall and require very little maintenance.

Trim Trees

Heavy snow and high winds may cause tree limbs to break, and those limbs can damage your roof or siding. Trim back any limbs that are close to your home to prevent this type of damage.

Check Attic Insulation

Did you know that 90% of homes in the US are under-insulated? Before the temperatures drop, make sure yours isn’t one of them. Lack of insulation allows heat to escape through your roof, melting the snow and leaving your home susceptible to leaks. Even if your home has some insulation, it may not be enough, so have attic insulation professionals take a look as you prepare your home for winter.

Snow Removal Services 

After significant snowfall, you’ll also want to consider professional snow removal services. This helps to prevent water damage and damage from the weight of the snow. In general, snow removal services are recommended at about 24 inches, but talk to a roofing professional about how much snow your roof can handle before needing to be cleared.

Contact Our Experienced Southeastern Wisconsin Roofing Professionals

Since 2010, Abby Windows & Exteriors has been the trusted choice for roofing in Southeastern Wisconsin. If you need roofing services, contact us today for more information and to schedule a free consultation with our skilled, experienced roofing professionals.