7 Steps to Prep Your Roof for Fall and Winter

Summer is winding down quickly. Before we know it, kids will be back in school, pools will start to close, and the temperature will begin to drop. And while many are excited for the fall season to return, it’s important to be a little cautious before we start to break out the jackets and hunt down that perfect pumpkin at the patch. As we anticipate pretty radical temperature changes, it’s important to treat your roof with some much-needed TLC. 

This is the protocol you need to follow: 

Patch Up Leaks

Let’s hope you won’t have to take this step. Before you begin any other strenuous work, take a thorough look at your ceiling and keep a lookout for noticeable water damage. If you notice water seeping into the building you need to take immediate action to seal any leaks. Contact your roofing contractor to inspect your roof flashing at least once a year.

Examine Shingles and Roof Valleys

The valley absorbs water, debris, and other substances that fall onto the roof. Roof shingles are the final layer of texture at the top of your building’s surface. Perform a roof inspection to declutter any matter that’s built up in the valley of your roof. During this process, take note of any missing or broken shingles so your roofing company can replace them quickly.

Clean the Gutters

Any matter buildup in the roof valley gets carried into your gutters and downspouts. After a long summer, your gutters will likely have some blockage that needs to be removed. You’ll also want to make sure there are no loose connections. Unclog any matter you find and make sure your gutters are installed securely.

Clear Off Remaining Debris

Once you’ve taken care of the shingles, valleys, and gutters, you’ll need to check out the rest of the surface and clean up any spots that might’ve been missed during the first go-around. All you need is a hose and a ladder, but for best results, it would help to have a professional contractor perform this essential maintenance for you. 

Replace Sealants

You’ll want to make sure all equipment is sealed tight on top of your roof. This includes antennas, plumbing fixtures, brick stacks, and HVAC equipment. The original calk used to seal these items will eventually wear away. Make sure you replace any sealant that has become visibly cracked or worn out. 

Inspect the Chimney

Deep cleaning the chimney is vital. Ask your roofer to do a thorough inspection to see if any chunks of mortar are missing. You’ll also want to take a look at the bricks and make sure none are loose. You may need to hire someone to do some brickwork if that’s the case.

Finetune Your HVAC System 

If you have any rooftop units, you’ll want to adjust them to prepare for colder weather. Put a tarp over your equipment when you perform any roofing-related maintenance. Once you’ve completed the previous steps, have your contractor inspect your HVAC system. Clean off any substances that might’ve built up during the summer months and replace any rusted parts.