Winter Roofing Tips: Preparing Your Roof for Cold Weather Challenges
Winter is quickly approaching, and while Tulsa doesn’t receive heavy amounts of snow, it does receive abundant rain that often freezes and transitions into the occasional snowy surprise.
That said, the relatively mild winter climate doesn’t mean you can ignore your home maintenance routine. The last thing any homeowner wants to deal with in the dead of winter is emergency roof repair on their Tulsa home. You can avoid this disaster by completing some simple roof preparation ahead of cold weather. This way, you can be prepared for anything that comes your way.
Shamrock Roofing and Construction is one of Tulsa’s most trusted roofing companies. With over 55 years in the business, we’ve seen it all when it comes to residential roofing. Homeowners who plan ahead usually come out best, so we’ve put together a few tips for winter roof prep in Tulsa.
#1. Schedule a Roof Inspection and Repair Existing Problems
The first step is to get scheduled for a roof inspection. A detailed assessment with one of the area’s leading experts on roofing in Tulsa may reveal tiny problems that can be addressed before winter arrives and makes them worse. Professional roofers have the experience and knowledge to identify issues unseen with the naked eye, and it’s best to rectify issues as soon as they’re discovered instead of waiting for a larger problem to make an appearance. Winter can be tough on a roof, so get an inspection on the calendar as soon as possible. You’ll be glad you did.
#2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters are one of the most essential components of your roofing system. They’re incredibly effective at diverting water and keeping your roof (and your home) safe and dry. However, they also tend to collect material such as leaves and sticks. They also serve as prime locations for nesting creatures. When the gutters get blocked, their effectiveness is significantly reduced, putting your home at risk for roof repair in Tulsa. A quick sweep of the gutters while also ensuring they are fastened securely to your roof is a great preventive measure before winter resumes.
#3. Invest in Winter Roofing Tools
There are a few roofing tools that make the winter months a little more manageable when it comes to your roof. Items like a roof rake (to keep snow from accumulating), a heat cable (to prevent the formation of ice dams), or a melting mat (also an ice-thwarting tool) can help you survive the throes of winter unscathed. If you suspect you might need the devices, purchase them now before the first snow falls. That way, you’ll beat the rush!
#4. Up Your Game With Added Insulation
Attic ventilation is critical for circulating warm air underneath the roof and preventing opportunities for ice dams to develop. A simple layman’s test for assessing your attic’s ventilation status is to close up all holes and openings and hold up a piece of paper or tissue to determine if there’s any movement. If not, your vents may need an upgrade or repair. Experts on roofing in Tulsa will know the type of insulation most effective for your home. They can help you determine if an added layer of insulation or additional exhaust openings will make a difference for your roof this winter.
Is Your Roof Ready for Winter?
Unfortunately, emergency roof repair in Tulsa is a common occurrence during winter months, and the damage is often completely avoidable. With the help of our team at Shamrock Roofing and Construction, your roof will be well-equipped to withstand any trauma winter whips up. Contact us today to schedule a free roof inspection or get scheduled for winter roof prep. We’re here to help!