Preparing Your Roof for Extreme Weather Conditions
December 6, 2023 | Michael Laguna
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Here in the metro St. Louis area, we have our fair share of damaging storms. As the weather turns colder and snow and ice are in the forecast, it's time to make sure your roof is in good shape. Our roof repair services can help address any issues before severe weather strikes.
Taking care of a few maintenance tasks before the snow flies saves aggravation and money. A roof that's in good shape is less likely to need expensive emergency repairs. Follow these practical tips from the Lagunas Roofing experts, and you'll be ready for whatever Old Man Winter brings our way.
Ready to winterize your roof? Contact our team at Lagunas Roofing today for professional inspection and maintenance services.
Schedule Your InspectionProfessional Roof Inspection: Your First Line of Defense
Do you know the condition of your roof? When was the last time you had it professionally inspected?
If you aren't sure how to answer either of those questions, have a roofer take a look to determine what's going on over your head and whether there's trouble brewing. Have a contractor check out the roof before winter arrives to ensure it's structurally sound and free of any immediate concerns. If they find any vulnerable spots, arrange for roofing repairs to prevent further deterioration.
Although you might be able to spot some damage from the ground, without a closer look and specialized knowledge, you won't catch every issue. Inspectors often find loose flashing and shingles, damaged gutters, and leaks that are impossible to see from a distance. Addressing these problems now means avoiding disasters later, for example, loose shingles may not hold up in high winds, or they could allow water to infiltrate the roof decking.
Learn more about identifying common roofing issues that professionals look for during inspections.
Essential Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance
Why Clean Gutters Matter for Storm Protection
Gutters protect your home by channeling water from rain and melting snow off the roof. When they are full of debris, water backs up and spills over, causing damaging problems like ice jams.
Pre-Winter Gutter Maintenance Checklist
Tackle gutter cleaning before the snow flies:
- Remove accumulated leaves, twigs, and other debris
- Inspect gutters for cracks, loose areas, or sagging sections
- Check downspouts for clogs and proper drainage direction
- Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation
- Schedule professional repair or replacement if damage is discovered
For more detailed guidance, check out our tips for cleaning out your gutters.
Tree Trimming and Property Hazard Removal
Trees around your home can threaten the roof during a storm. Schedule tree trimming to support healthier vegetation and ensure branches don't hang over the roof and there aren't any dead limbs that could become projectiles during a storm. Trimming and pruning also help keep excess debris from clogging gutters.
Also, watch for old, weak, or damaged trees on your property. Weakened trees are susceptible to falling during a storm and possibly damaging the roof. Work with an arborist or tree surgeon to determine the best way to address problematic trees.
Roof Debris Removal Strategies
Roof debris, like leaves or pine needles, can wash into the gutters and cause clogs. Not removing it can cause mold and rot. Invest in a roof rake to make debris removal safer and easier, or call a professional to take care of cleanup if you cannot access it easily.
Understanding common roofing issues homeowners face can help you identify problems before they become costly repairs.
Get Professional Roof InspectionEmergency Storm Preparation
Purchase Emergency Tarps
Sometimes, even the unthinkable happens, and the roof sustains damage. Ideally, you'll never need to use them, but be sure to have tarps on hand to protect your home against further damage while you wait for roofing repairs. If you aren't familiar with tarp usage or the best way to install one, call a roofing company for help to ensure safety and avoid additional damage.
Ice Dam Prevention: Critical Winter Protection
During the day, snow can melt on the roof, but when the temperature drops after the sun goes down, that snow melt can refreeze at the roof's edge and in the gutter, building up into an ice dam. When this happens, water backs up under the shingles, causing a leak and widespread damage like stains, mold, and rot.
How to Prevent Ice Dams
Prevent this by:
- Keeping the gutters clean and free of debris
- Reducing heat loss from inside your home to minimize thaw and freeze cycles
- Sealing gaps and cracks in your attic and roof areas
- Ensuring the attic has adequate ventilation and plenty of insulation
- Adding extra insulation to help slash your home heating costs by keeping cold air outside and warm air in
For homeowners dealing with existing damage, learn about our storm damage roof repair services.
Need professional roof inspection before winter arrives?
Contact Lagunas RoofingExpert evaluation and maintenance services available.
Professional Winter Roof Preparation Services
Are you ready for the next severe weather event?
Working with Lagunas Roofing guarantees the confidence that comes from knowing your home can withstand even the worst weather conditions. Our roof replacement services ensure your home is protected when repairs aren't enough. To have our certified specialists perform a multi-point inspection and make roofing repairs, call (618) 300-5661 or fill out our contact form on our website.
For additional insights on roof longevity and maintenance, read about how long your roof should last to better plan your home's protection strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: We recommend having your roof professionally inspected at least once per year, ideally in late fall before severe weather hits. If your roof is over 15 years old or you've experienced recent storms, consider bi-annual inspections.
A: Look for missing or damaged shingles, sagging areas, debris accumulation, clogged or damaged gutters, and any visible leaks or water stains on your home's exterior walls or soffits.
A: While homeowners can clean gutters themselves, we recommend professional service for safety reasons, especially for multi-story homes. Professionals also have the expertise to identify potential problems during cleaning.
A: Emergency tarping costs vary based on roof size and damage extent. Contact us immediately after storm damage for prompt assessment and temporary protection while insurance claims are processed.
