Five Roofing Maintenance Tips for Winter: Insights from a Roofing Contractor in Wheaton, Illinois

When temperatures start to drop during the fall, there are a few key tasks around the house that you’ll want to make time for. Unfortunately, one area that is often overlooked by homeowners is the roof.

By making sure your roof is in top shape, you can help it hold up through the winter months and protect your home from inclement weather that could lead to structural damage. To that end, this roofing contractor in Wheaton, Illinois is going to provide five maintenance tips below that will help you protect your roof.

Check The Attic

Many people overlook the fact that one of the most important places to inspect is your attic. Plumbing, heating, and insulation often exist in your attic space, increasing the risk of a water leak.

The easiest way to tell if there is any roof damage or leaks up in your attic is by looking at your rafters. If you see cracks or dips in any of them, it could indicate serious water damage. If you notice this issue, do not hesitate to contact a licensed roofing contractor in Wheaton, Illinois.

Remove Debris

Leaves, twigs, and branches can easily make their way onto your roof without you knowing. Fallen leaves will start molding and rotting, which can become a health hazard if left on your roof. Falling debris can also damage the shingles underneath.

One option is to use a leaf blower to clean up the top layer, but an easier way is to have a small vacuum handy and gently shake any loose leaves or other items off the roof before vacuuming them up. Be sure to get all areas within easy reach since many people forget about these spots when cleaning their roofs. It might be helpful to set down some sheets or tarps below these hard-to-reach places to avoid littering in areas not intended for falling materials.

Clean Out Your Gutters

Your gutters can be more than just drains for rainwater — they also keep your Wheaton home safe from water damage. Unfortunately, debris and leaves pile up as time goes on, leaving you at risk for expensive repairs. Gutters should be cleared out periodically throughout the year so that clogs don’t occur when it rains outside.

If there is a lot of dirt or other gunk in them, take a hose down them or scrub them with an old toothbrush or broom handle — anything will suffice if it removes what is stuck inside. Be careful not to use too much force when cleaning out your gutters because they are made of thin material and could break easily if handled roughly.

Trim Low Hanging Branches

Your roofing company in Wheaton, Illinois will recommend trimming any low-hanging branches on your property that may have an overhang and may brush up against your roof. These are the branches most likely to blow in strong winds or fall on your roof, so removing them will reduce their chances of doing any damage.

Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected

It’s best to regularly have your roof inspected by a licensed roofing company in Wheaton, Illinois. This is the best way to find out if you need more repair or just a professional power wash. Without knowledge of what needs to be done, it can be hard to know how much time and money is required — a professional inspection can help you save both in the long run.

Final Thoughts

You may not give your roof a second thought until winter, but now is the time to start thinking about it. Proper maintenance will ensure that the weather won’t compromise your home’s structure and will help keep you warm and safe from the cold throughout the winter months. 

Looking for a Licensed Roofing Contractor in Wheaton, Illinois?

Are you looking for a licensed roofing contractor in Wheaton, Illinois that can help with your roofing maintenance needs? If so, you’ve come to the right place — Prusak Roofing Inc. is the company to call. With over 55 years of experience, you can count on us to deliver professional results. Contact us today at (708) 422-2624 to learn how we can help.