How To Prepare Your Roof In Summer To Protect It In Winter

The winter is when you’re more likely to experience roof damage, but you can prevent this happening by preparing it well in the summer.

One of the biggest issues that can occur during cold winter is ice dams around your roof and gutter.

If you spot icicles hanging from the roof of your property in the winter, there is a significant you also have an ice dam.

This could prevent water from draining from your roof in the future. Instead, this water may leak into your house, causing serious damage to the interior of your property.

Below, we explain the preparation you can do in the summer that to prevent ice dams appearing in the winter.

How to prevent ice dams from forming

Ice dams usually form as a result of poor ventilation in your attic. Without a working ventilation system, warm air in your attic can melt snow, causing it to run down your roof, before re-freezing in more problematic areas such as your gutters.

The best way to prevent ice dams is, therefore, to install a good ventilation system in your attic. It may also be beneficial to insulate your roof and plug any gaps in your attic where warm air can get in. 

Also, consider replacing the shingles in your roof or placing a waterproof membrane under your shingles to stop moisture entering your attic.

What to do in the winter

It could be beneficial to clear the snow as soon as possible using a roof rake or a push broom immediately after the poor weather subsides. Make sure to remove ice from your gutters, either by chipping away at it or by using ice melt, salt or boiling water.

Horn Brothers are experts in roof repair and roof maintenance. For more information and to receive a free consultation, get in touch with the team today.