Soon, the leaves will begin to change and the hot summer days will turn into chilly fall mornings. Before the frigid New England temperatures begin to roll in, you should take preventive measures to keep extreme temperatures and precipitation from affecting the structural integrity of your roof. Following a few simple steps can help you prepare your home’s exterior for winter and avoid the stress and expense of preventable damage.

Clear All Debris From Gutters and Roof

The first step to readying your roof is cleaning your gutters and clearing all excess debris from the roof’s surface. You can use a broom or a leaf blower to remove sticks, leaves, dirt, and foliage. Never use a pressure washer, as they can loosen shingles and trap water underneath. Cleaning your gutters better enables precipitation to successfully run off your roof and drain properly.

Check for Visible Damage

Once your roof and gutters have been cleaned, take a close look at your roof for any obvious damage. This may include shingles that are loose, cracked, frayed, or missing, which may indicate the need for a roof repair or replacement. Also, be sure to check metal flashings, which can allow water leaks if they’re structurally compromised.

Inspect Attic Insulation and Ventilation

During the day, sunlight heats your attic, causing an increase in hot air. If your attic is not properly ventilated, the hot air inside cannot escape and condenses when it comes into contact with cooler roof supports, causing a buildup of moisture and potentially mold. If left untreated, this can destroy your roof. Insulation is critical, as well, as it helps retain the optimal temperature of your home. Without proper insulation, you’ll likely spend more on electric bills.

Action Roofing has extensive experience providing residents in the Greater Boston area with comprehensive roof repair, maintenance, replacement, and installation services. If you need assistance preparing your roof for winter or repairing existing damage, call us today at (978) 726-9709 for a free estimate.