How Do I Prepare My Roof for Winter?
Your roof can have a huge effect on your heating costs, and these costs are predicted to rise this season. Hail, wind, rain, and snow can all damage your roof. Check that your roof is ready for winter so you can get ahead of the game should it need any repairs or to be replaced. So what should you do to prepare your roof for winter?
Take a Look Inside
If you’re able to access your attic, take a look at the inside of your roof. Do you notice any areas that are collecting water inside? Is there any mold or white spots? If so, this is a sign of leaks which could mean your roof is damaged and needs to be replaced.
While you’re up here, check your insulation, are there spots that feel drafty? Or do you have the opposite problem, where your attic isn’t receiving adequate airflow? Either of these issues can cause you to have an increase in energy bill costs. Hot air trapped in your attic can actually lead to condensation causing moisture damage or mold. Subsequently, too much air escaping will cause you to pay more to heat the house. The problem with too much heat in your attic is that this not only causes ice dams but can also cause you to overrun your AC in an attempt to cool things down.
Check Your Roofline
Next, you’ll want to head outside and stand at a distance from your house where you can get a full picture of the roofline. Is your roofline straight? Or is it sagging, dipping, or curving? This can be a bad sign that your roof is waterlogged, or once had an ice dam, and needs full replacing.
While you’re out there, make sure to check your shingles. Look out for any curled or discolored shingles. Are any missing or have moss growing?
Remove Debris
If you can get up on your roof or have the proper tools, you’ll want to remove any debris that has been collected such as fallen branches. Also, be sure to clear your gutters before the first snowfall! Once the snow begins to melt, it won’t be able to drain properly. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider hiring a snow removal company to clear your roof of any large accumulations of snow, as heavy loads on your roof can lead to cracks and leaks.
Get Your Roof Professionally Inspected
If you’re unsure of the quality of your roof or how old it might be, we recommend getting it inspected by a professional. They’ll be able to better determine if your roof is in need of a full replacement. Roofs that are 15 years or older will most likely need an inspection.
These are all signs that your roof is not ready for winter and will need to be replaced- but fear not, NEWPRO knows New England weather. With 75 Years of Experience, a winter install is a task we are up for!
For medium to large installs, NEWPRO asks that homeowners lower their thermostats for a short duration. This will prevent their heating systems from overworking and ultimately wasting their heat and money.
If you’d like to improve the energy efficiency of your New England home, contact NEWPRO today to learn more about the exceptional roofing system we offer.
