Winter Maintenance Tips For Asphalt Roofing
Winter is getting in full swing which means it’s time to make sure that your asphalt roofing is ready for the cold. With these winterizing tips and tricks, your investment will stay protected all season long.
1. Make Sure Your Gutters Are Working Correctly
Gutters are often overlooked but they’re one of the most important features of any roof. Clogs in gutters can easily cause them to overflow, damaging not only the gutters themselves but also your roof and siding. Backed up water can even flow backwards inside your home resulting in costly damage!
To make sure your gutters are prepared for winter, make sure they’re clear of leaves, pine needles, nests and other detritus from the changing of the season. If you haven’t scheduled your gutter cleaning this season, do it as soon as possible!
2. Clear Snow To Prevent Ice Dams
An ice dam occurs when a layer of snow accumulates on your roof, and the underside melts due to the heat from your attic. That melted water runs down the roof and settles around the gutters (where the heat of the attic can’t reach), freezing again into a dam. Melted water stopped by the dam can then leak under your roof, gutters, siding and even into your attic.
The best way to deal with ice dams is through prevention. Get a professional roof inspection to make sure there are no problem areas in your attic. If you start to see icicles hanging from your gutters, an ice dam is already forming; in this case, contact professionals to clear your roof of snow to prevent further issues.
3. Asphalt Roofing Needs Regular Inspections
For most homes, a yearly roof inspection is necessary. These inspections can catch hard-to-see damage or potential problems, which can then be fixed before they turn into major issues. It’s important to choose a reputable local roofing company for this—look for a company that does thorough in-person inspections. In many cases you can get an inspection for free, so don’t be afraid to call!
Trust Valley Roofing & Exteriors For Your Asphalt Roofing Needs
If it’s been a while since your last inspection or if you suspect something’s wrong with your roof, give us a call! We have helped families in Charlottesville and the Shenandoah Valley protect their homes since 2004. With our free inspections and highly-trained staff, you know that your asphalt roofing is in good hands. Contact us today to learn more.
