Winter Roof Prep in Stroudsburg: How to Handle Heavy Snow & Ice Loads
It’s no secret that winter in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, brings a mix of snow, ice, and freezing rain—sometimes in heavy supply. Your property’s roof is the first line of defense against these elements, and even the best roofing systems can be put to the test when the snow and ice loads are at their heaviest. With that in mind, some preparation can go a long way both in terms of protecting your property in the winter and helping you avoid the possibility of costly repairs in the future. So, what can you do when it comes to winter roof prep in Stroudsburg? Consider taking these measures recommended by our team at Kanga Roof:
Have Your Roof Inspected Before Winter Comes Around
The first and most effective step you can take to prepare your property’s roof for the heavy snow and ice that comes with wintertime is complete an inspection. Whether you want to first have a look yourself or jump right to partnering with the professionals at Kanga Roof for your inspection, it’s important to make sure your roof doesn’t have any cracked, missing, or damaged shingles. You’ll also want to check your flashing and ensure that it isn’t too worn or loose, plus any signs of sagging or structural problems should be addressed before the season of heavy snowfall arrives.
Clean Out Your Gutters & Downspouts
One of the main causes of roof damage in the wintertime is clogged or ineffective gutter systems. When leaves, twigs, and other debris are backed up in your gutters, it blocks the flow of water. That means melted snow has nowhere to go, which can lead to ice dams. It can also lead to water seeping under your roof. Flushing your gutters and downspouts with water to ensure proper drainage is always a smart step to take before the temperatures drop below freezing, plus you’ll want to consider investing in gutter guards to keep debris out of your gutters.
Check Out Your Attic Insulation & Ventilation
Your property’s attic will play a big role in your roofing system’s health, especially during the winter. Poor insulation can allow warm air from the interior of your property to rise and melt snow in an uneven manner under your roof. This can create ice dams, which will cause significant damage to your system’s structural integrity. When you invest in proper insulation, have your vents inspected, and make sure gaps are sealed, you’ll put your roof in a better spot to handle heavy snow and ice loads.
Get Rid of Any Overhanging Branches By Getting Your Trees Trimmed
If you have any tree branches hanging over your roof, it’s best to get them trimmed before winter comes. Because snow and ice can weigh down those tree branches, causing them to break and fall, which can cause significant damage to your roof and gutters—damage that will be costly to fix. Not only should you have your trees trimmed to lessen the risk of damage, but you can also help reduce moss and mold growth, which is another plus.
Check for Signs of Leaks & Take Care of Any Minor Repairs Your Roof Needs
Another good idea is to check for any wet spots on your walls or ceilings, as that’s an indicator of an underlying leak. These are problems you’ll want to get fixed before they become more serious when the winter storms begin. Plus, any other minor repairs you might need should be scheduled before the winter, as that can help to keep them from becoming bigger, costlier problems.
Contact Us Today
Whether you need to schedule a roof inspection or a repair as part of your winter roof prep in Stroudsburg, PA, Kanga Roof is the right team to partner with for the job. If you’re ready to get your roof ready for the snow and ice, contact us today.