08 Dec Preparing Your Roof for Winter
Winters in Tennessee can be unpredictable with wide variations in temperature and precipitation. Your roof plays a critical role in shielding your structure from overhead threats like storms, rain, snow, ice, hail, and even the sun. To ensure your structure is best prepared for whatever weather Old Man Winter throws our way, our Roof Ninjas advise that it’s a smart idea to prepare both your home’s roof and the roofs of any commercial structures you may have. This step-by-step guide is designed to help you best protect your investment.
Inspect Your Roof for Damages
As the property owner, make sure to take a good look around your roof for missing or cracked shingles. If you see anything that doesn’t look right, contact us right away to see if we recommend that one of our Roof Ninjas come out and do a full inspection. Our Ninjas are trained to spot potential issues that only a professional can spot.
During a professional roof inspection, our Ninjas will evaluate your roof’s overall condition and identify any weak points or potential problem areas that could become further aggravated during wintertime weather. Our Ninjas will also ensure that any necessary repairs are completed so that your roof is protected from long-term damage due to extreme weather temperatures. They will also make any recommendations, if necessary, related to insulation, ventilation, and waterproofing.
Special note for commercial properties: our Ninjas recommend enrolling in a QE Roof Maintenance Plan. Regular commercial roof inspections help you stay ahead of potential issues like membrane punctures or splits.
Trim Back Tree Limbs Close to Your Home
Cutting back overhanging tree limbs is an important part of winterizing your roof and home. Limbs that hang directly above the roof of your home or business are the most important to trim back. Doing this eliminates the likelihood that branches will fall on your roof during a storm, which could cause significant damage to your structure.
Ensure Your Attic is Insulated and Ventilated
Proper ventilation is paramount to ensuring that ice dams do not form. You want your insulation and ventilation to prevent water from freezing and expanding beneath your shingles. As temperatures drop and snow and ice accumulate on your roof, proper insulation ensures that warm air stays inside your house, while releasing the excess moisture outside.
Without proper insulation, damage can occur to your roof as snow continues to freeze, thaw, and refreeze. Proper ventilation is just as important because it helps avoid ice damming around eaves and protrusions on your roof. If ice forms in these areas, it can result in serious water leakage that could require extensive repairs or even complete roof replacement.
Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can also cause ice dams, which can lead to leaks and other problems as outlined above. Make sure your gutters are free of debris.
Final Thoughts
Partnering with a team you can trust is essential to have the peace of mind you need when it comes to the roof of your home or business. For over 17 years, our local, family-owned, award-winning team of dedicated and professional Roof Ninjas has been providing roof repairs and replacements to families and property owners across middle Tennessee. With over 100 years of combined roofing experience, you can rest assured that our Roof Ninjas will always be “Here When You Need Us.”