Scotland’s winters can be quite harsh, with snow and ice storms and temperatures reaching as slow as-26°C in some areas. We can all bundle up and prepare ourselves for the chill, but what about our homes? It’s up to us to make sure they are as well protected as we are, so we can shelter in them with no worry of the cold coming in!
Getting your roof prepared for winter is important to ensure it can withstand the brutal conditions that come with winter- the ice, snow, and freezing temperatures. Let the expert roofers in Glasgow help you winterize your roof against the coming storms so your home and family will be safe and sound! Meanwhile, here are some steps you can take to prepare your roof for the coming winter:
Inspect the Roof for Damage
- Keep an eye out for missing, cracked, or loose tiles. The snow and ice can creep under damaged tiles causing leaks. Be sure to check for any signs of wear and tear.
- Check the roof’s flashing around any vents, chimneys, skylights, or other rooftop features. Water can seep in and make leaks when the flashing has been damaged.
- Examine the roof valleys where two slopes meet as they are highly prone to leaks. Double-check that the seams are sound and tight, and that no damage has occurred.
Clean Out the Gutters and Downspouts
- Clear away any collected debris like leaves, twigs, and collected crud from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, which can freeze and damage your roof.
- Make sure proper drainage can take place, water should be able to flow freely down your gutters. If the gutters are clogged up then water can pool there and freeze, leading to hazardous ice dams.
Check for Risks from Ice
- Take a good look at your insulation and ventilation systems, ice dams can form when warm air coming up from the attic melts the snow on the roof, which will then refreeze at the eaves. Make sure your loft is ventilated and well-insulated to stop heat from escaping to cause melting.
- Trim back overhanging tree branches near or over your roof, snow and ice can weigh them down until they break and fall, causing damage to your roof, or even you!
By taking action now you can help ensure your roof is ready to withstand the wrath of winter weather and keep your home safe and dry!
