Do you live in an area that sees a lot of extreme weather? If so, you need to be prepared for the effect it can have on your home – including on your roof.
Unless you take the right steps, harsh weather can severely damage the roof of a property. Luckily, getting your home prepared for extreme weather isn’t too complicated – here are the steps you should take.
Get a Roof Inspection
Getting your roof inspected at least once a year is essential. Ideally, you should schedule roof inspections in the fall (as well as after a significant weather event). Inspections help identify any damage to your roof that isn’t obvious, ensuring it is strong enough to deal with inclement weather.
Make sure to hire a professional who will take care of your roof inspection for you. Once the inspection has been completed, address any problem areas that were discovered as soon as possible, especially if they were significant concerns like missing shingles or tiles.
Use the Best Materials
Using high-quality materials helps reduce the risk of your roof being damaged during an extreme weather event. Some of the best options include asphalt shingles and slate. Asphalt is fire-resistant and can handle hail and wind damage, while slate is shatter-resistant – and also looks great!
Another option to consider when looking at materials for your roof is tile. Clay and concrete tiles are both great options that are aesthetically pleasing while also wind and fire-resistant. Keep in mind that these options are tailored for residential properties – if you’re looking for a roof for a commercial property, some roofing materials you can consider include metal, modified bitumen, and TPO.
Prevent Ice Dams
Having icicles hanging from the eaves of your roof can make your home look like it’s been taken right out of a postcard – but it also means major trouble for your roof. This is because if you have icicles formed, there’s a good chance you’re also dealing with ice dams – ridges of solid ice that build up as the snow melts and refreezes. This build-up can significantly damage your roof by dislodging shingles and causing water to enter your home.
If you live in an area that sees severe winters, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent ice dams from forming. One way to do so is to attach heated cables to your roof’s edge. Additionally, you should invest in ice and water shields for your roof – they ensure that if a dam does form, your home is protected from water leaking into your property.
Finally, if you notice an ice dam is forming or has already formed, don’t wait to get rid of it. You should immediately begin raking it with a roof rake and gently running hot water over the ice to melt it, after which the water will drain through the gutters.
Getting your roof prepared for everything the weather has to throw at it can be challenging, especially if you live in an area that sees major weather events frequently. However, regular maintenance must be carried out so that you aren’t faced with a larger roof repair bill. To take care of your roof, use the tips discussed above and reach out to a professional if necessary.