As we head into the thick of winter, we encourage all homeowners to take this opportunity to properly winterize their roofs and gutters. Dropping temperatures and approaching snow mean you can avoid costly repairs in spring by caring for your home, roof, and drainage system ahead of time. Gutter and roof inspection in Salem is the most essential step, but there are many ways to prepare for the cold season!
How do you prepare your roof and gutters for winter in Salem? Always complete gutter repairs and replace roof shingles early to lower the risk of damage. Once you finish initial repairs, move forward and fully winterize the rest of your roof and gutter system.
Step One: Cleaning Your Gutters and Roof
The first step to prepare your roof for bad weather is gutter cleaning before winter. Cold temperatures and moisture settle into leaves or debris clinging to these surfaces, potentially causing mold and the breakdown of materials. Simply put on gloves, scrape leaves off surfaces, use a plumber’s snake to remove wet clumps, and use grime wipes for easy cleanup.
Step Two: Trimming Encroaching Tree Branches
Low, overhanging tree branches are a hazard no matter the time of year; however, with the extra inclement weather and low temperatures, the risk of fall hazards is even greater. Not only do these branches pose a threat to anyone walking below, but they also drop leaves into your gutters and could fall onto your roof! Part of a proper roof inspection in Salem is to cut off dead or dying tree limbs and trim back tangled branches, ensuring a stress-free winter season.
Step Three: Clear Downspouts
It can be difficult to see all the way down each downspout around your home, but they can easily become clogged with debris. The buildup of organic material puts excess strain on your gutter system, blocking water from flowing through and allowing it to freeze inside the downspouts. It could be as easy as flushing them out with a garden hose, but sometimes a little extra elbow grease is necessary to rid these areas of debris completely.
Step Four: Investing in Gutter Guards
Many homeowners opt for extra protection for their home this time of year, and the wonderful thing about gutter guards is that they act as gutter protection all around! They are fairly affordable, reliable, minimize cleanup, and reduce the risk of clogging throughout the wet season. If you’d like to avoid frequent gutter cleaning before winter, ask your local home improvement professionals which gutter guard type is best for your home.
Step Five: Insulate Attics and Adjust Thermostat
The longevity of your roof and gutter systems doesn’t just come from caring for them on the outside; caring for your home from the inside out is a great way to keep these areas in great shape throughout the winter! Ensuring proper installation inside your attic year-round assists with venting and mitigating winter humidity. Additionally, you can prepare your roof and gutters for winter by adjusting your thermostat for maximum efficiency when the temperatures begin to drop.
Asking for Help From the Pros for Gutter and Roof Inspection
There’s no shame in asking your local contractor professionals for a roof inspection in Salem to help prepare your roof and gutters for winter in the Salem area. Cleaning out gutters and clearing debris from your roof on your own can be very dangerous; you risk insect or other pest bites, as well as slips and falls that can cause serious injury. With T&H Home Improvements, you can prevent structural damage to your home and rest easy knowing your roof and gutter system are in great hands!
