As the weather begins to get colder and snowfall increases, it is important to winterize your home’s exterior. Protecting your roof, siding and windows will help keep you safe from the elements. As well as, protect your home from damage caused by cold temperatures. Let’s break down why winterizing your exterior is so important and how a winter roofing contractor can help.
Why You Need to Winterize Your Roof
The roof of a house is an integral part of its structure. It protects you from rain, wind and snow, as well as provides insulation for the interior of your home. That’s why it’s important to inspect your roof before the winter season begins. In order to identify any potential problems or hazards that may arise. Here are some tips on how to properly winterize your roof:
- Inspect shingles for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracking or missing pieces. If necessary, replace any damaged shingles with new ones before the start of winter.
- Trim back any branches that may be hanging over the roofline in order to prevent them from causing further damage during heavy snowfall or high winds.
- Check all flashing around vents and chimneys for any signs of corrosion or other wear and tear. Replace corroded flashing as needed in order to prevent water leakage into the home during storms.
- Clear gutters of leaves and debris that can block drainage during heavy rains or snowmelt runoff from the roofline.
Why You Need To Winterize Your Siding
Siding is a thin layer that covers the outside walls of a house which helps insulate it against extreme weather conditions, including hot and cold temperatures. In order for siding to effectively protect a home from cold weather conditions, it needs to be properly maintained throughout the year—especially during winter months when temperatures can drop significantly below freezing levels. Our winter roofing contractors suggest the following to properly winterize your siding:
- Conduct an inspection of all siding panels for any signs of wear or damage such as cracks, holes or rot spots prior to winter’s arrival. Damaged panels should be replaced immediately in order to maintain effective insulation levels throughout the entire winter season
- Check all caulking around windows and doors for any signs of cracking or peeling away from surfaces where they were applied originally, as this could lead to air leakage which could result in higher energy bills due to inefficient insulation levels inside a home
- Clean exterior walls periodically with mild soap solution in order to remove dirt buildup that can accumulate over time – this will help keep walls looking new, while also providing better protection against cold air infiltration into a home
- Apply a fresh coat of paint every few years (depending on manufacturer’s instructions) in order to keep siding looking new, while also preventing sun exposure from damaging underlying materials used for construction purposes
Why You Need To Winterize Your Windows
Windows play an essential role in keeping us safe from outside elements such as wind chill factor or excessive sunlight exposure; however, if not properly maintained, they can become vulnerable to extreme temperature changes which could lead to costly repairs down the road. To best prepare windows prior starting of cold seasons:
- Inspect window frames and panes closely for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, holes or peeling seals around edges. Repair or replace these components before the damage worsens
- Install storm windows if applicable –these provide an extra layer of protection against strong winds and excessive moisture buildups
- Replace old weatherstripping, the material sealing spaces between window frame and wall –this prevents air leakage and keeps warm air inside while keeping cold drafts out
- Utilize thermal curtains or drapes–these provide additional layers of insulation, trapping warm air inside while preventing outside cool breezes from entering the room
With winter upon us, now is the time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is protected against harsh elements. Colder seasons bring with them big challenges to properly maintain your roof, siding and windows. Following the above guidelines will help your home stay warm and cozy throughout the snowy months!
You can reach out to Reliable Roofing, Siding & Windows for a roofing estimate in Stoughton, MA. Our winter roofing contractors have years of experience and training to ensure your home is protected. You can quickly contact us to learn more by calling 781-821-2220. Set up an appointment if you want repairs or discuss new options for your home.
