The Do's and Dont's of Wintertime Roof Maintenance
Despite the warmer than average 2023 January thus far, New England has already seen some record Winter weather! With snow already here and more coming soon, it's important to keep an eye on the #1 thing keeping all that weather out of your home; your roof.
The roof is the most important part of your home to keep healthy because if it fails, everything you own is underneath it! What are something of the things you can do this Winter to take care of your roof? What are some of things you should not do?
Do: Have your Roof Inspected By a Professional
Most of us never bother to look up at our roof unless we have a problem with it. The best time to inspect your roof is before it starts to give you issues.
MHS suggests having your roof inspected by a Roofing Professional once every five years and(or) after severe winter weather events.
Oftentimes, inspections can reveal minor condition issues that can be repaired before they cause more significant damage to the inside of your home!
Don't: Ignore Warning Signs
Are your shingles lifting or cupping? Do you see signs of water damage and mold inside of your home or attic? Don't ignore the warning signs!
Roofing material braves the elements 365 days a year. That wear and tear is exacerbated by Winter's ice and snow! In many cases a small roofing issue becomes a big one once snow arrives!
Moreover, roofs are more difficult to repair effectively in the Wintertime. Waiting could lead to more damage to your home and more costly repairs!
Do: Keep Low-Pitch Roofs Free of Snow Build-Up
Low-no( 5:12-0:12) pitch roofs are especially prone to snow and ice damage. It's important to keep these areas free of excessive snow weight and ice build up.
Snow removal with the proper tools and technique can serve as preventative maintenance and help you avoid more costly repairs. Additionally, this preventative care will help extend the life of your roof!
Do: Use The Right Tools & Techniques
In order to properly remove snow build up from the aforementioned sections, some basic tools are required: A non metal edge snow shovel and(or) a roof rake.
With A Snow Shovel
The best way to remove snow build up is from ontop of the roof! (This can be dangerous, and MHS recommends utilizing a professional for this task.) Starting from the ridgline, gently push the snow down towards the eaves.
Avoid the urge to get right down to the roofing material. It is okay to leave 2-3 inches of snow on the roof to avoid damaging it.
Also, ensure that anything you don't want burried below (Pets and family members included) is away from the ground areas!
With A Roof Rake
Start by removing a 3ft line near the eaves first. Set the rake above the line and pull. Continue doing this until you've cleared what's within your reach.
Be careful to avoid pulling any roof fixtures or ice cables and never push up at the snow. Doing so can potentially damage your roof!
Other Tools
For the sake of brevity, MHS did not cover some of the other appropriate tools for the job. There are many tools that are also effective albeit more complicated to use correctly, we encourage you to research other tools thoroughly!
The Wrong Tools & Techniques
There are some tools that are very similar to the right tools. Never use metal bladed/edged tools, snow blowers, lawn tools, pressure washers, coal shovels, or torches.
When it comes to 'how' the rules are simple. Don't push/point tools up at the roof, and do not attempt to clean all the snow off.
Do Not: Put Yourself In Danger
MHS recommends using a professional for any Roofing maintenance. This is especially true in Winter.
Never get on a roof if you are not trained and physically able to do so safely.
Be mindful of the weather, the wind, the temperature, and your own physical limitations.
Never work alone when on the roof or using a ladder. Always make sure someone is present to observe you and aid if a hazardous situation arises!
Do: Call Us!
If you're in need of a roof inspection or service MHS is here to help! Our team of Roofing Professionals does snow removal and emergency roof repairs/ replacements!
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