If there’s one part of your home that you want to be in optimal condition for the fall and winter, it’s your roof. Remodeling the bathroom or refinishing your floors are certainly exciting projects, but a roof in need of repair is something that can make your winter months much more difficult. Worst of all, depending on where you live, it can be almost impossible to access your roof during the winter if something goes wrong. That’s why it’s best to take care of any issues now. What are the most common things to think about to ensure your roof is in good shape?
Clean Out Your Gutters
One of the most important things you can do at the start off a blustery fall and cold winter is to clean out your gutters. Gutters accumulate a lot of leaves and debris over the course of the year, and in many parts of the country fall and winter are when you need your gutters to perform at their best. Using a ladder, climb up and remove leaves and debris from your gutters. You also want to look for any areas where your gutters may be pulling away from your roof and refasten them making sure that they are well attached and not sagging. With your gutters in good working condition, you’re much more likely to keep your home safe and dry throughout the fall and winter. Be aware that cleaning your own gutters can be dangerous, and if you’re uncertain in any way, it’s easy and affordable to outsource this task to a trained professional.
Repair Your Shingles
Loose or missing shingles are one of the most common causes of leaks during wet winter months. It is natural for shingles to come loose or to chip due to normal wear and tear or inclement weather. That’s why it’s a good idea to occasionally climb up onto your roof and check out their condition. Shingles form a very uniform pattern on your roof, making it easy to spot if one is missing or damaged.
To replace missing shingles, you might need to pry loose the surrounding ones as well and replace each one with nails to ensure they are secure and properly overlapped. Be aware, though. If you have many shingles missing or damaged, or if your shingles are starting to buckle, it may be a sign that they need to be replaced altogether. If this is the case, your best bet is calling a professional roofer.
*Again, any kind of roofing work can be dangerous, and requires extreme care. If you’re unsure, it’s better to find a pro and make that call.
Check for Possible Leaks
Just because you’ve never seen your ceiling dripping during a storm doesn’t eliminate the possibility that your roof is leaking. If you have an attic or insulation under your roof, it’s possible you have a minor leak that just hasn’t made its way to your ceiling. Do a walkthrough of your home checking out the ceilings for any areas of discoloration. If you have an attic, head up there and feel around for any moisture or signs of mold or mildew that could be caused by a leaky roof.
Finding a Qualified Roof Repair Specialist
Thinking your roof may need more attention than you can do yourself? Consider calling a roof repair specialist. Find a reliable contractor by checking reviews online. Any experienced and honest specialist will be able to give your roof a good checkup and recommend the most sensible repairs before winter gets underway.