The Chicago winter can take a toll on your roof, but below are some useful tips to prepare your roof system (including gutters and attic) for the coming winter months.
1. Check your roof shingles
Fall is a good time to check your roof shingles. Any broken or misplaced shingles should be replaced appropriately, as snow and ice will cause further damage to your roof.
2. Check your roof flashing
In addition to your roof shingles, you should also check your roof flashing. Roof flashing is the material used around roof edges where two uneven surfaces are connected to prevent water from seeping into the house. Faulty roof flashing installation or damaged roof flashing is a major cause of leaky roofs in Chicago homes.
3. Get rid of hanging tree limbs
While checking your roof, take notice of lingering branches from trees that happen to raid your house. If possible, take the time to remove them. Snow can cause the branches to sag due to the snow’s weight which could spell trouble for your roof.
4. Remove debris from your gutters
Even though we’re talking about roofs, don’t forget to clean your gutters. Debris from trees, including branches and leaves, should be cleared from gutters to relieve any clogs. And in the process of cleaning out your gutters, you should make sure they are secure!
5. Check your attic for signs of mold
If you see black stuff in your attic, it’s probably mold. Mold formation is due to improper attic insulation and/or ventilation, which causes warm air to be trapped inside your attic. Read more about what it means to have a Properly Insulated and Ventilated Attic for your home.
Roofs should be inspected by a trusted roofer to check for any weak spots. If the climate becomes disastrous, the snow and ice could be capable of tearing a hole in your roof due to the weak spot. Ice Dams could also form during wintertime as a result of poor attic insulation and ventilation, so it is worth getting a professional attic inspection to prevent damage to your roof, ceilings, and walls.
When preparing your roof for the coming winter months and you see signs that your roof or gutters need repairing or replacement, feel free to Contact us and request a roof estimate. We can help determine the health of your roof system and the extent of any roofing problems.
Roofing Aid Inc | Roof Installation Contractor serving Chicagoland Suburbs, Illinois, USA