Preparing Your Roof for Winter: Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Home Safe
Minneapolis homeowners, winter is knocking on our doors, and it’s time to make sure your home is ready for the season. If you’re like many of your neighbors, you often overlook one vital aspect of winter readiness. The state of your roof!
Neglecting to winterize your roof can lead to winter roof problems and costly repairs.
Instead of wondering whether your roof can withstand the weight of Minnesota snow and ice, why not prepare your roof to weather the months ahead?
Take a minute and read our guide. We’ve included expert tips on preparing your roof for winter. From essential roof maintenance to addressing common winter roof problems, we’re here to help you keep your home safe and warm.
Common Winter Roof Problems
Winter brings specific challenges for homeowners in Minnesota. There’s always the possibility of frozen pipes and furnace breakdowns.
Your roof comes with its own set of concerns. Identifying and addressing these common winter roof problems is key to making it through the long, cold winter:
Ice Dams
Ice dams form when snow melts and refreezes at the roof’s edge. When this happens water backs up on the roof behind the ice dam. It’s a problem because the water can eventually leak into your home.
Proper insulation and ventilation can prevent ice dams.
Snow Accumulation
Excessive snow buildup can strain your roof’s structure. Many Minnesotans use a roof rake to safely remove snow. The objective here is to reduce the load on the roof and reduce the load.
Leaks and Moisture
Look out for water stains on your ceilings or walls, as they can indicate roof leaks. Don’t wait to address any sign of water infiltration.
Another problem you might notice is condensation in your attic. Primarily caused by improper attic insulation, condensation can damage the roof’s structure and shingles.
Looking out for these common winter roof issues can help you maintain a watertight and resilient roof throughout the winter.
Inspection and Roof Maintenance
Winter roof care starts with an inspection. Before the snow blankets your home in Minneapolis, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough roof inspection. Our experts recommend inspecting your roof’s:
- Shingles
- Flashing
- Gutters and downspouts
- Attic space
You can usually do a visual inspection of shingles from the safety of the ground. Look for cracked, missing, or damaged shingles.
Inspecting flashing requires a ladder. If you can get on a ladder safely, inspect around chimneys, vents, and skylights. What you’re looking for is damage or deterioration.
If you notice signs of damage flashing, you’ll need to do some resealing.
Many homeowners don’t realize the impact clogged gutters can have on the roof. When they’re full of debris, gutters can’t drain properly, which can lead to ice dams and roof damage.
Don’t forget the attic! Check the attic for signs of moisture. If you notice mold in the attic, it can indicate a roof leak.
Regular maintenance, such as clearing debris and keeping your roof clean, can go a long way toward preventing winter roof issues.
A roofing contractor should do a professional roof inspection. They have the ability to quickly diagnose roof problems. They have the right tools and manpower to take care of repairing a roof if they find issues.
Solutions to Keep Your Roof in Top Shape This Winter
In the event of roof damage, quick action is essential. These key steps to address winter roof issues will help prevent costly repairs and keep your family safe:
Emergency Repair
If you discover a leak or significant damage, contact a roofing professional immediately. You’ll need professional expertise to assess the issue and make the correct roofing repairs.
Temporary Fixes
While waiting for your roofing contractor to arrive at your home, there may be temporary fixes you can apply. For example, if you have a leak, roofing cement or a temporary patch may work as a short-term solution.
Avoid DIY Snow Removal
Earlier in the article, we mentioned using a snow rake. If you can use one safely, it’s a great way to take the weight off the roof. There’s a caveat.
Improper techniques can cause more harm than good. So, we recommend calling your roofing company if you need to remove large amounts of snow.
Paying attention to potential roof problems and then taking care of issues you find during your own inspections, will help keep your roof in great shape for the winter.
Winter Roofing Materials Make a Difference
It might surprise you to know that roofing contractors in different parts of the country use different types of roofing materials. Sure, they all install shingles, but not every shingle is created equal.
In Minnesota, you can use winter-ready roofing materials.
If you’re planning to install a new roof before the snow and cold temps set in, ask your roofing contractor about shingles designed for cold climates. Look for a shingle product that’s resistant to cracking and damage in freezing temperatures.
Ask your contractor about installing heat cables. Roof heating cables, also called roof heating tape, can help prevent ice dams from forming on the roof and gutters.
Another option to consider is a slate roof. Slate is a heavy roofing material and can withstand the weight of heavy snow accumulation. A slate roof creates an excellent barrier against leaks.
Caring for a Roof Can Increase Lifespan
Your roof is a long-term investment. Being proactive about roof maintenance could extend the roof lifespan by several years.
Make it a point to pay attention to your roof. Don’t ignore things like missing, broken, or curling shingles.
Avoid ice dams, but don’t overlook tree branches. Overhanging branches can cause problems during winter storms. Trim them back before winter arrives.
Schedule regular inspections with a trusted roofing professional to find and discuss issues early.
Take these proactive steps to maximize your investment and save on potential repair costs.
Garlock-French Roofing Can Help You Survive Winter
It’s never too early to get ready for winter in Minneapolis. Now is the time to take care of winter roof care.
Garlock-French Roofing knows how to deal with harsh Minnesota winters. They’ve been installing and repairing roofs in the Minneapolis area since 1932.
Reach out today and let’s talk about your roofing needs. Together, we’ll get your roof ready for the coming winter storms.
