Top 7 Roof Winterization Tips for St. Charles County

Preparing for winter should start with your roof since it’s what keeps your home warm and dry inside. Heavy rain, wind, sleet, and snow are all common winter conditions for St. Charles County residents. While roofs are designed to withstand the elements, their lifespans can be cut short if they aren’t properly maintained. Winterizing your roof before bad weather arrives helps protect your home and property from damage and extends the life of your roofing system.

Follow These Suggestions to Winterize Your Roof

1. Visually Inspect Your Roof

Some roof issues can be spotted safely from ground level using a pair of binoculars. The first step is to look at your roofline. Your rooflines should be straight, so look for any signs of dipping, curving, or sagging. Look for damaged or missing shingles, ponding water, or large amounts of debris. Homeowners should not climb onto their roofs unless they have expert training and appropriate safety equipment. If you spot any problems, call a professional roofing contractor for assistance.

2. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters work with your roof and when they are blocked or clogged, your roof and the interior of your home can be at risk. Ensuring your gutters are free of debris helps keep melting snow and ice moving freely off of your roof and prevents the formation of ice dams. Prevent leaks, damaged gutters, and foundation problems by keeping your gutters and downspouts free of debris year-round.

3. Clean Off Roof Debris

It’s important to remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the surface of your roof. Even small amounts of debris will hold moisture and can lead to rot or mold, which over time will break down roofing materials. Leaves and other debris frequently accumulate in roof valleys, so it’s important to clear those areas regularly if you have mature trees on your property.

4. Check Inside Your Attic

Inspect your attic for signs of moisture, mildew, pests, damp insulation, or other problems. 

Make sure you have the right amount of insulation and the attic access door is properly sealed as well. Without the right type and amount of insulation in your attic, you could have higher than necessary energy bills and roof problems developing. Adequate insulation and ventilation in your attic help prevent the formation of damaging ice dams during cold winter months.

5. Have Your Chimney Cleaned and Inspected

Loose or damaged chimney flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. The flashing and caulk around your chimney should be inspected and replaced if necessary. It’s also important to ensure that your chimney is free from debris, pests, and creosote buildup. Creosote is extremely flammable and can lead to dangerous home fires. If you have a chimney, have it professionally inspected and cleaned before winter to protect your home and family. 

6. Trim Overhanging Branches

Make sure that surrounding trees and branches are regularly inspected and pruned to prevent damage to your home. Snow and ice can be extremely heavy, so when it accumulates on trees, it can cause branches to break and fall onto your roof. Even small branches can cause damage to shingles and other parts of your roofing system. Keeping trees trimmed back also makes it harder for pests like squirrels and raccoons to attempt to access your attic and chimney.

7. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A roof inspection can save homeowners money by identifying issues early before they become bigger and more costly to repair. Most industry professionals recommend that you have a professional roof inspection at least twice a year. During a typical inspection, the inspector will check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles, problems with caulking or flashing, signs of water damage, and problems with the overall structure of the roof. 

Work With a Trusted Local Roofing Company

Since 1999, Brian Dawson Roofing & Construction has been installing residential and commercial roofing systems throughout the greater St. Louis region. Because all of our work is done under warranty and fully insured, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new roof is dependable and long-lasting. 

Contact us online or at (636) 733-6435 to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Our experienced professionals will arrive on time, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to detect leaks and other problems your roof may be facing. Our mission is to provide quality roofing services and top-notch customer service, all at a competitive price.