How To Prevent Roof Leaks This Winter

Feb 07, 2023

A Snow-Covered Roof In Muncie, IN

How To Prevent Roof Leaks This Winter
In Muncie, IN

Tips For Keeping Your Roof Safe From
Winter Weather Damage

Winter can be a rough time in Muncie, IN, and one important thing you won’t want to forget is protecting your roof from leaks. You’ll need to take preventative steps to ensure your roof is in top shape throughout the cold season to ensure it stays strong.

Ensuring your roof is in good working condition keeps your family safe from the elements. Your roof is the first and last line of defense from the frigid winter air, and you can’t afford to leave it up to chance.

From inspections to snow removal, you’ll need to be proactive to maintain your asphalt shingle roofing. Follow these tips to keep your roof safe from leaks this winter and beyond!

Have Your Roof Inspected Before The Winter Starts

The first step in protecting your roof this winter is scheduling a roof inspection with a professional roofing company. When you schedule an assessment, experts will come to your home to see if you have any problems with your roof. They’ll let you know if you need repairs or they will discuss roof replacement solutions with you.

It’s essential to follow up on anything they find before winter starts so that you can stop leaks before they have a chance to cause damage. Any defects in your roof could get worse with cold weather and cost you even more money in the long run.

If there are any cracks and crevices in your roof, moisture can infiltrate them and freeze. This will cause expansion, which will, in turn, make the situation much worse. Acting on the recommendations of your roofing partner is vital to the safety of your home.

Prevent Ice Dams With Proper Ventilation

A primary source of leaks comes from the formation of ice dams. These ice fixtures form when the snow melts atop warm spots on your roof. As the snowmelt runs down the slope, it meets colder air and refreezes in the form of dams.

Ice dams most often occur at the eaves or in the gutters. Eventually, enough ice builds up that the water begins to pool behind the ice and eventually seeps inside your home.

The warm spots on your roof are caused by incorrect ventilation in your attic and roof space and poor insulation. The combination allows heat to escape through the roof, melting the snow.

You can solve this problem by having a professional evaluate your ventilation and insulation. If you know your home is prone to ice dams, be sure to tell your roofing specialist when they’re performing the assessment.

Not sure if you have ice dams? A telltale sign is icicles hanging from the eaves or gutters – they are beautiful to look at but a sure sign of an issue.

Remove Debris From Your Rooftop And Clean Your Gutters

Before the first snowfall, your gutters and rooftop should be completely debris-free. When leaves build up on the roof and aren’t removed, they will begin to hold moisture, which can lead to shingle damage and leaks.

When the gutters aren’t cleared, they can become blocked. Additionally, with water unable to flow freely in the winter, it will likely freeze, making it easier for ice dams to form. This can cause water to seep into the home through the roof and cause major damage inside.

You’ll want to clear the debris from both areas or hire a professional to take on the task. Either way, this must be accomplished before the winter starts. Another solution is to get gutter protection installed that will prevent the buildup of debris.

Trim Low-Hanging Tree Branches Away From Your Roof

If you have any trees close to your home, you’ll want to pay attention to any low-hanging tree branches near your roof. These branches will pose a threat during the winter, as ice and snow will begin to weigh them down. Eventually, the extra weight can be enough to cause them to break.

When they fall on your roof, they can cause significant damage, breaking asphalt shingles and leading to leaks. They can even cause a partial roof collapse. To prevent this from happening, trim back these branches, so they are no longer hanging over your roof.

Don’t Allow Too Much Snow To Build Up

You also don’t want to allow too much snow to build up on the roof. The excess weight can put a strain on the structure, weakening it. This stress can lead to leaks or even a collapse. When you see several inches of snow on the roof, you’ll need to remove it.

To remove the snow, you’ll need a roof rake. You must remove the snow from the ground, as the roof will be slippery from the snow and ice. You’ll need to stay out of the way of the snow as it falls to the ground.

Trust Clemens Home Solution For A Perfect
Roof Replacement In Muncie, IN

If you’re searching for a roofer in Muncie, IN, look no further than Clemens Home Solutions. We have all the roof replacement solutions you need with our high-quality CertainTeed Integrity Roofing Systems.

With the best installers in Indiana, you’ll get a meticulous installation with premium customer service.

Call us today at (765) 741–8214 to schedule your free estimate.

Schedule a Free Estimate