Wisconsin and Illinois get some of the coldest weather in the country during the winter months. Before the cold season, you’ll want to ensure your roof can withstand the weather. Water and ice can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly.
The team at Aurum Contracting compiled some tips on how to get your roof ready for winter.
Getting Your Roof Prepared for Winter
Your roof will need a few tune-ups before the cold season, and below are some things to keep in mind.
Inspect Roofline
The first thing to do is check your roofline. A sagging roofline could mean that your roof deck is weak and needs some improvements. Heavy rain and snowfall can cause your roofline to sag, even more, so you’ll want to call a roof professional to handle the problem.
Check Attic Ventilation and Use Proper Insulation
During the cold season, heat will rise to your attic. You need to check attic insulation and attic ventilation to prevent heat loss from the roof. Replacing the insulation in your attic and walls with fiberglass or mineral wool can minimize heat loss and reduce heating bills.
Consider Gutter Guards
Clogged gutters are a major risk during the winter due to ice dams. Clogged gutters can damage house siding, which may spread to your walls and ceiling. Guards on your gutters protect your whole roof from water and ice damage.
Inspect for Roof Leaks
Missing shingles can lead to leaks, which are a significant source of water damage. Leaks tend to form near missing or lose shingles, so try to replace as many damaged shingles on your roof as you can before the weather sets in.
Trim Nearby Branches
If you live near an area with significant vegetation and trees, you should trim any stray branches before the first snow of the season. The weight of snow can cause branches to fall on your roof, which can require costly repairs.
Get an Inspection
Last but not least, you should also consider getting a roof inspection from a professional roofer. Roof inspectors can catch any issues that may not be apparent and give you extra advice on how to get your roof ready for winter.
Asphalt Roof vs. Metal Roof
Many homeowners might be wondering whether asphalt shingles or metal roofs are better for winter weather. Generally speaking, metal roofs handle cold weather better than asphalt because they are more durable and can withstand structural damage from the weight of snow and ice. If your roof warranty is almost up, you may want to consider upgrading from asphalt to metal shingles.
Contact Us Today to Get Your Roof Ready for Winter!
Aurum Contracting has been serving the Beloit area for nearly a decade. Our company specializes in all kinds of roofing work, from new roof installation to storm repairs and storm restoration. When it comes to a Beloit roofing company, we should be your first choice!
If you are looking for a professional Beloit roofer or storm repair, contact us online or call today at (608) 312-4343 to schedule a free inspection and quote!