With the winter season approaching, there’s no time like the present to prepare your home’s exterior to endure the cold, snow and ice. Here are five tips to find and fix exterior problems so your home is comfortable, safe and energy efficient over the winter months.
1. Make Sure Your Attic is Properly Ventilated
Check your attic to ensure you have the appropriate vents and fans in place so there are equal levels of incoming and outgoing air. You will know if it needs to be looked at if you see any signs of mold, mildew or past leaks you weren’t aware of. Consider calling a roofing contractor for a professional inspection. They know even the minor signs to look for in your attic, which can extend the life of your roof.
2. Check Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure all gutters and downspouts are running clear and flowing. If old gutters aren’t maintained, often they will develop leaks from freezing and refreezing of water blocked by debris in the coldest temps. Many homeowners aren’t aware that the cost of new gutters is usually more manageable than spending money trying to fix existing damaged or malfunctioning gutters.
3. Remove Overhanging Limbs and Branches
Tree limbs and branches that hang over your roof can be a danger to your home, especially when snow and ice start to pile up on it. The added weight can cause these overhanging limbs to snap, which could mean big problems for your roof. You may want to hire a professional to trim any tree branches that are less than three feet away from the roof.
4. Look For Roof Damage
Even minor damage can lead to big problems if it goes unaddressed. Before the next snowfall occurs, take the time to carefully examine all shingles, flashing and vents, and identify any loose or missing shingles. You should also consider hiring a professional to:
- Inspect the roof for ponding water, depressions, nail pops and any evidence of mold
- Re-seal all flashing and any exposed fasteners
- Repair or replace shingles as needed
5. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Your roof is too important to take a chance on. If it was installed 10+ years ago, a simple and free roof inspection will give you a better sense of the condition it’s in, and possibly prevent any future damage. Schedule a professional roof inspection now. It could help your roof last longer and improve the efficiency of your home.
