Roofers have a tough job. They work at heights, carrying heavy shingles and nailing them to the roof's surface. In addition to working hard, roofers are also very knowledgeable. They can recommend the best roofing material to fit your budget and preferences, and they can make repairs, as needed, to ensure your roof continues to keep your home safe. There's a lot to learn about roofing. We are not professionals, but we consider ourselves to be well-informed, and we share the information we know on this website. As you read, you will learn more about roofing as a profession, and you may also pick up some roofing tips you can use on your own home.
Roofing maintenance and upkeep is a constant process to keep your home protected, no matter what time of year it is. Whether there is snow on the ground or green grass, make sure your roof is in good repair, and correct any problems that arise so you can prevent serious damage. Here are some recommendations to help you take care of your roof over the winter and keep your home protected from damage.
Complete a Roof Inspection
Inspecting the condition of your roof is a good idea before the full force of winter hits, as it will allow you to check into and repair any problems with the roof's structure and drainage. You can also check for any loose flashing, peeling and broken shingles, or for signs of moisture leaks into your attic space. The underside of your roof in your attic space can provide you a good assessment of what is going on underneath your roof's shingles, especially if you are not able to access them due to snow and ice on your roof's surface.
During a roof inspection, it is also a good idea to keep an eye out for signs of pest problems and damage they can cause. For example, look along the eaves of your roof for any wasp nests or damage and clean it off, and clean out of any small areas to prevent buildup that can pose problems for your home's quality. Bird droppings can attract other pests that you don't want living in your roof or attic space. Contact a pest control professional if you or your roofer finds signs of pests so they can remedy the problem and get rid of the pests.
Arrange For Professional Services
After you have hired a professional roof inspection or completed it on your own, you should arrange for any damage to be repaired immediately. Any loose or bent flashing, broken roof vents, broken soffits, and loose, broken, or missing shingles should be repaired on your roof. Your professional roofer can evaluate problems with your shingles, especially if winter temperatures prevent a full roof replacement. They can usually apply a thorough patch to the area on your roof needing work until they can make a full repair or replacement in the spring.
Roofing work can be completed in winter, but it is not recommended, and there is a reason for this. Roofing shingles, when applied on your roof, have an adhesive that sticks on the roof's surface. But if your roofer applies new shingles in the winter when the temperature is low, the sun's heat won't activate the adhesive on your shingles, and they won't fully cure on your roof until spring. However, your roofing professional will make sure your roof problem is addressed properly until a full repair can be made in spring.