The best time to prepare your home for winter weather is now, before snow and ice arrive. We’ve pulled together some tips to help you protect your home and your family. And as always, if you have storm damage to your roof or siding, you can call us for emergency repairs, no matter the weather.
1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Now that the leaves have fallen, it’s time to clean your gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. If you have a single-story home, you may be able to do this yourself. But for a 2-story home, you should plan on hiring a company to do this.
Clogged gutters and downspouts in the winter can lead to ice dams. This is when water from melting snow works its way up under your shingles because the water cannot flow freely through the gutter system. The water freezes overnight, and the cycle starts all over again. This water can infiltrate your roof, causing damage to the inside of your home.
2. Trim Tree Branches
If you have any large trees where the branches overhang your roof, you’ll want to get those trimmed back. Ice storms and heavy snow can cause tree branches to break and come crashing down. If they fall in your yard, it’s no big deal. But if they fall on your roof, it could cause major damage.
3. Get Your Roof Inspected
It’s crucial to get your roof inspected before the possibility of a heavy snow. Contact a reputable roofing contractor to either physically get up on your roof or use a drone to inspect your roof. They’ll look for things such as:
- Missing shingles
- Missing or damaged flashing
- Masses of moss and lichen
Most roofing contractors can make minor repairs the same day they inspect your roof. By delaying repairs, you run the risk that snow and ice can infiltrate your roofing system, causing damage inside your home.
4. Get Your Chimney Inspected
Before using your fireplace, you should get your chimney inspected. A local chimney sweep will go up on your roof as well as enter your home to inspect the flue, the chimney, the flashing, etc. They can clean your chimney as needed, and make minor repairs. They may also tell you your roof needs repairs.
It’s important to get a yearly chimney inspection to avoid a disaster like a chimney fire that can result with a buildup of creosote or by a bird or other animal building a nest in your chimney.
5. Insulate Walls and Attic
Most newer homes already have a good level of insulation, but if you live in an older home, consider adding insulation to your walls and attic. Many home remodeling contractors and even handymen can do this for you.
You may want to consider contacting your electricity provider to schedule a home energy audit.
6. Caulk and Weatherstrip Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let cold air in, jacking up your heating bills. Caulk and weatherstrip them now. And if you have older windows that aren’t as energy efficient, or have rotting frames, consider window replacement.
You can Learn more about preparing a winter preparedness plan by visiting the Virginia Department of Health.
Get a Quote from Northern Virginia’s Most Trusted Roofing Contractor
To get the roof you deserve, you need to be sure to hire a reputable roofing company with the training and expertise to guide you through your options and then complete a flawless roofing installation. And when you work with a GAF Master Elite company, you’re eligible for a GAF 50-year roof warranty.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring less experienced tradesmen. Hire one of the most experienced, expert roofing companies serving Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.
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