Winter Roof Maintenance Tips

Winter is here, and with it comes snow, ice, and all of the problems that cold weather brings. Memphis is no stranger to winter conditions; we deal with it for a few months every year. Taking care of your roof is an important job, but it may be most important during the winter. Pinnacle Roofing is here year round to help you with any roofing needs you may have. Here are some of the most important pro-tips for winter roof maintenance.

Unclog your gutters

Make sure your gutters and downspouts are free of leaves and tree debris before that  first snowflake falls. Ice dams, which are buildups of ice that can allow melt water to leak down into your attic., will form from clogged downspouts, eaves, and troughs. Safety hazards like icicles can also be caused by clogs. Your gutters and drainpipes help shed water from your roof as snow and ice melt. Water collects in clogged gutters. This is bad news when temperatures plunge. Frozen downspouts and gutters cause leaks in your building and damage to your drainage system. Contact Pinnacle Roofing before the cold weather sets in to make sure your roof is ready for the winter.

Making repairs

Before winter comes and it starts snowing, you should inspect your roof and make any repairs necessary. But if for some reason you can’t make these repairs before winter hits, you should be able to make most of them any time during the winter as long as your roof is dry. Repairs to your chimney, flashing, and shingles are all possible during dry winter periods. It’s best to have a licensed contractor like Pinnacle Roofing make these repairs, and most should be made when the temperature is above freezing.

Clear away snow

Even though we all love a pretty snow covered roof during the holiday season, but if snow stays on your roof too long, it can cause big problems. Heavy snowfall that doesn’t melt can put An enormous amount of pressure is put on your roof as, well as the support trusses underneath, by heavy snowfall that doesn’t melt. It causes damage and, in the worst-case scenario, a collapsed roof. Snow on your roof that melts and refreezes can lead to ice dams. These problems can be prevented by clearing the snow off your roof. Make sure you use an ice rake that’s made specifically for this purpose; Using a shovel or other tool to clear the snow can damage your shingles, make sure to use an ice rake— they’re made specifically for this purpose. It is tempting to take matters into our own hands when it comes to snow removal. Climbing out on a roof covered with snow and ice is a bad idea. Conditions are slippery at best, and one slip is all it takes to incur serious injury or death.

Single story homeowners with snow removal tools like roof rakes need to be careful as well. Large amounts of snow falling off of a roof are dangerous. Make sure all pets and children are inside, and never attempt to remove snow alone. Better yet, wait for professional assistance from Pinnacle Roofing

Installing attic insulation

Sufficient insulation in your attic not only helps insulate your roof and prevent ice and snow buildup, but also keeps you warm inside. Blown-in insulation is typically cheaper and easier to install, but it should only be used to insulate the floor of your attic space. Rolled insulation is a better choice as it is the proper way to insulate your ceiling and your roof.

Replacing your roof

In the instance your roof  needs to be replaced, you don’t have to wait until spring. You shouldn’t wait at all. Pinnacle Roofing can replace your roof during the winter, no problem. All roofs can be replaced in the winter with the exception of  flat roofs, which need to be replaced during consistent above-freezing temperatures. To ensure you don’t have any leaks or small problems that grow into large ones, be sure to make all needed roofing repairs during the winter. Think back to the last time you had your roof inspected or repaired. If you can’t remember, chances are it is time to have it looked at. A structurally sound roof is capable of withstanding even major snowfalls. Compromised roofs are not. Two obvious signs of a structurally unstable roof are:

A roof that sags in the middle

Evidence of water damage in ceilings and attics

Call Pinnacle Roofing to perform a routine inspection or for a consultation before the next winter storm comes, because here in Memphis that could be today!