When the leaves start to fall and the temperature starts to drop, you know that winter is just around the corner. You start to do certain tasks to ensure that your family and home are ready, but you must make sure that you also take the necessary steps to prepare your roof for the oncoming snow. Your roof is one of the few things that protects your family from the outside elements, so it needs to be in good condition. You can help ensure this is the case by taking a few simple steps early on before winter arrives.
Check the Roofline
One of the first things you will want to do is to take a close look at the roofline. The rooflines of your roof should be straight without any signs of sagging, curving, or dipping. If you begin to notice these signs, there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed first as soon as possible.
Throughout the winter season, your roof is likely to be exposed to significant rain and snowfall that can cause the sagging to become worse, put additional strain on the roof, and possibly cause the roof to cave in. If your roof is sagging, showing signs of deterioration, and/or is leaking, repairs may be necessary.
Check the Chimney Flashing
Next, you need to inspect the chimney. The flashing around the chimney is a piece of metal that forms a seal where the chimney and the roof meet. Unfortunately, leaks can develop here, and leaky flashing can sometimes be a mistake that leads to a leaking roof. Check the flashing to ensure it doesn't look loose or damaged and that the caulking has not deteriorated in any way. If any signs of damage are detected, they will need to be repaired as quickly as possible.
Inspect the Attic for Signs of Moisture Damage
Go inside of your attic and look for any signs of water damage, such as wet roof decking, water spots on the walls, or puddles on the floor. If there are any signs of moisture damage, you will need to contact a professional for a thorough inspection and potential repairs in order to ensure that your roof is in tip-top shape before winter arrives.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Speaking of professional inspections, it is recommended to have one performed before the winter weather arrives anyway. While you may have checked a few areas of the roofing system, there are many things that you cannot see from the ground, and you could have missed something. To ensure that your roof is good to go for the upcoming winter season, contact a roofing repair service for an inspection.