Winter is here, bringing snow, ice, and chilly temperatures that can put your roof to the test. Proper roof maintenance is essential to protect your home from winter weather damage and keep your family safe and warm. At Advanced Restorations, we’re committed to helping homeowners maintain their roofs year-round. Follow this winter roof maintenance checklist to ensure your roof is ready for the season.

Inspect Your Roof for Damage

Before the snow and ice settle in, take time to inspect your roof for visible signs of damage:

• Check for missing or damaged shingles that could allow water to seep through.
• Look for signs of cracked or worn flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
• Examine valleys and other low points for debris or wear.

If you notice any issues, address them promptly to avoid costly repairs later. Advanced Restorations offers professional inspections to help identify and resolve roof problems.

Clear Debris from Your Roof

Leaves, branches, and other debris can trap moisture and cause unnecessary weight on your roof. Before winter weather arrives:

• Safely remove debris using a roof rake or soft broom.
• Avoid climbing on the roof, as it can be slippery and dangerous.

Clearing debris reduces the risk of ice dams and prevents excess wear on your roof.

Clean and Maintain Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof, leading to ice dams and leaks.

• Remove leaves and debris from your gutters to ensure proper drainage.
• Check for loose or sagging sections and repair them as needed.
• Make sure downspouts are directing water at least 3 feet away from your foundation.

Properly maintained gutters help protect both your roof and your home’s structure.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Winter storms can bring strong winds, heavy snow, and ice, which may cause tree branches to break and damage your roof.

• Trim back any branches hanging over your roof to prevent them from falling.
• Keep branches at least 10 feet away from your home to reduce debris accumulation.

Trimming trees not only protects your roof but also improves overall safety during storms.

Check Your Attic Insulation and Ventilation

A well-insulated and ventilated attic prevents heat loss and minimizes the risk of ice dams forming on your roof.

• Inspect insulation levels to ensure they meet recommended standards for your area.
• Check for proper ventilation to allow warm, moist air to escape.

Advanced Restorations can help assess your attic’s insulation and ventilation to improve energy efficiency and roof health.

Monitor for Ice Dams

Ice dams occur when snow on your roof melts and refreezes at the edges, trapping water that can seep into your home.

• Remove excess snow with a roof rake after heavy snowfall.
• Ensure proper insulation and ventilation to keep your roof temperature consistent.

Taking these steps can prevent costly water damage and protect your roof throughout the winter.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

While DIY maintenance is important, a professional roof inspection can catch issues you might miss. At Advanced Restorations, our experienced team provides thorough inspections to:

• Identify damage or potential weak points.
• Recommend necessary repairs or upgrades.
• Ensure your roof is ready for the winter season.

Protect Your Home with Advanced Restorations

Winter roof maintenance is key to preventing costly damage and ensuring your home stays safe and warm all season long. By following this checklist, you can address potential problems early and enjoy peace of mind.

If you need assistance with roof maintenance, repairs, or inspections, contact Advanced Restorations today. Our experts are here to help you keep your roof in top shape this winter and beyond.