It’s officially Fall and the days are growing shorter. With another Alberta winter on the horizon, we recommend an exterior inspection before the snow arrives.
While Alberta’s winters are beautiful and provide a wide range of activities, they can be hard on a home’s roof. With winter right around the corner, now is the time to make sure your roof is ready for the season’s rigors.
There are things you can do now – and things you should leave to the professionals – to prepare your roof for winter while giving you the peace of mind of protecting your home and family.
Inspect
Your roof should be inspected prior to each winter to check for damaged, loose, missing, curled, or lifting shingles. While you can examine your shingles on your home by yourself, you may want to consider having a reliable roofing specialist inspect your roof to assess the overall condition of your home’s shingles.
Repair & Replace
Your roofing contractor can easily replace damaged and deteriorated shingles before the start of winter.
Re-Seal
Your flashings, vents, and chimney stacks may have caulk and sealants which have worn out over time. Have a professional re-seal any of those areas where natural wear and tear has taken its toll.
Remove
It’s essential to trim back any tree branches hanging over your roof and gutters. Trim them back enough so they’re at least two feet from your roofing.
Clean
Your home’s gutters and downpipes can collect all kinds of debris – from leaves to twigs and branches and more. Get them ready for winter by cleaning them out. If you’re uncomfortable working on a ladder, you can hire a professional contractor to do it for you.
Target Your Downpipes
We’ve already discussed the importance of keeping your downpipes – and gutters – free of leaves, twigs, and other debris. But it’s also important to make sure that your downpipe extensions are directed at least 5-feet from your home’s foundation.
Ventilate
An attic without proper ventilation can block airflow and cause your energy bills to rise. Having a balanced ventilation system also prevents moisture damage, as well as mold, to your roof’s supports, while also preventing ice dams on your roof. Your best bet is to hire a roofing expert who can accurately assess your roof’s ventilation.
For a more detailed exterior checklist or a free roof tune up evaluation, contact us today. Hubbard Roofing & Exteriors offers professional services and free inspections.
