Whether you’re new to the Flathead Valley or have spent your whole life enjoying its natural beauty, you likely know that winter can sneak in quickly and pack a punch! Debris, snow, ice, unmaintained shingles, and gutters may lead to emergency roof repairs or the need for a complete roof replacement.
Spend a few minutes reading through how to winterize your roof to save yourself the cost and headache of unwanted roof damage.
Check the Attic
If you know how to access your attic space, beginning your winterizing roof inspection here is a logical first step. Things to inspect for include:
Ensure the space is well insulated with the proper R-value material best suited for your joist spacing. Replace any insulation that is damaged, flattened, or wet.
Proper ventilation is key to preventing ice dams, mold, and rot. Clear away any debris, insulation, or stored items that are blocking vents or impeding airflow.
Inspect all rafters and joists for stains, holes, and wet or soft spots. This could indicate a leak in the roof that will need immediate attention.
Take note of any sign of pest or insect damage. Termites, squirrels, and birds seeking refuge from the cold can gain access through vents and cracks, causing potential rafter and roof damage.
Clean Your Gutters
You may be thinking “how will clean gutters protect my roof?” Gutters and downspouts are designed to direct water flow away from the foundation and siding. Leaves, moss, and other organic material may clog gutters and cause water to seep under the shingles, which can lead to siding and roof damage.
Routine gutter cleaning and installation of gutter guards is an effective way to help prevent this potential hazard. Sage Roof and Residential offers free estimates for gutter guard installation, and gutter cleaning is an included service in our Winterizing Package. (Contact us for more information).
In Montana’s Flathead Valley, the snow accumulation can create an additional gutter hazard - ice damming. When the snow melts from the sun or rising heat transfers from the insulated attic space, water runoff may pool and freeze over the eaves and gutters. Heat cable installation in roof gutters and on the eaves’ edge can prevent damage caused by ice dams and icicles.
Call us at (406) 544-4985 when the snowpack on your roof needs removal. Snow removal, as part of your routine roof maintenance, can help reduce your risk of ice dams, leaks, and roof collapse.
Inspect Flashing, Gaskets, and Seals
Flashing is the metal barrier installed to deflect water from entering roof areas that are most susceptible to leaks. This would include where the surface of the roof joins areas like walls, chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys (where two roof slopes come together).
Gaskets and seals are found around vent pipes that penetrate the shingles, as well as around skylights and fasteners. Weather and age (most sealants are rated to last between 5 and 10 years) can cause these components to dry and crack, potentially allowing water to leak through.
Remove Moss and Debris
While it may seem normal to have some moss, leaves, or other organic material on your roof, removing it before winter is crucial. Not only do organic material and debris expand and contract with moisture, but they also provide a foothold for snow to cling to. The expansion can breach the water barrier created by the overlapping and layering of shingles. This may cause shingles to lift, resulting in leaks or loss of shingles. The absorption and retention of water and snow may also cause cracking and splitting that leads to leaks.
While cleaning up the roof, make sure to check your surroundings for any trees that could lead to damage. Trim or remove any diseased trees, overhanging branches, or pines that may drop needles. High winds, ice storms, and heavy snowfall in the Flathead Valley can lead to urgent roof repairs if you overlook this preventative measure.
Scan for Visible Shingle Damage (Or better yet— get a professional inspection)
Do your ridge cap or flat shingles have cracks, missing tabs, loss of granule coating, curls, or lifts? How about the roofline - any sagging or dipping? Proper roof maintenance is essential to prevent water damage that can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. It’s possible for homeowners to do a basic visual inspection using a drone or proper ladder, but if you lack the equipment or experience, make sure to call Sage Roof and Residential for a professional inspection and peace-of-mind.
Preparing the roof of your Montana home for winter doesn’t have to be stressful. Our skilled team of professionals at Sage Roof and Residential is ready to help you prepare for winter with autumn specials, winterizing packages, emergency roof repair, and a host of other home maintenance services.
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