Winter is cold. As the sun gets lower and sets earlier, the wind can really start to put a chill in your bones. This is why having a roof over your head is so important, as it keeps heat within your house and stops it escaping. Your roof is also your first line of defence against horrible winter rain and storms. In short it has a pretty impressive list of jobs that it does to keep you comfortable.
The trouble is that years of weather cycles can take a toll on your home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of danger. Here are some tips to keep in mind regarding your roof this winter.
Problems Inside Your Home
If there is a problem with your roof, you will see some clear signs from within your home. Any leaks, water damage, or general dampness in your ceilings are a tell-tale sign that there is a broken or missing tile. The quicker you find the problem; the less damage will be inflicted so it is important to stay vigilant against any indication of damage.
Visual Check
This is where things can get a bit dangerous. Doing a full inspection of your roof yourself can be beneficial as you can assess any damages and make a decision yourself. Unfortunately, this can mean going on the roof which can be slippery, especially during the winter when rain is never far from the forecast. In these situations we always recommend bringing in a professional who has been trained and has the specialist equipment to carry out a safe assessment.
Most of the time you should be able to do an adequate visual check from the ground. Signs to look for are things like animal damage, debris, and broken or missing tiles. You should also check the floor around your home for any signs of slipped or broken tiles, or moss, as this can be a sign on a problem with your roof.
Clogged Gutters
As autumn turns to winter and leaves start to fall, you may find that your gutters aren’t transporting water away from your home. This is probably due to debris and leaves from trees and bushes clogging up your guttering. This small issue can turn into a large one, as standing water will put stress on your gutters which may not be able to take the added weight. This could lead it to break, which will mean rain water will not move away from your home.
Keeping your gutters clear is an annoying job, but it is important that it is regularly attended too. You should also exercise caution and take proper safety procedures when using a ladder. Or call in the roofers to help clear your gutters safely.
Annual Roof Check
Having your roof inspected by a professional should be done before the winter comes around. It is much better to stop a problem before it starts than to fix one once it is too late. At Keay Roofing Services, our trained professionals will ensure that every nook and cranny of your roof is checked over for any faults. We can also repair any damage that we find right there and then. This gives you piece of mind and ensures that your home is safe from the winter.
Being pro-active in checking your roof is the first step to preventing water damage. This in turn could save you a lot of money in the long run. For more information about how to protect your roof this winter, please contact Keay Roofing Services on 0800 1577424 or send us an enquiry form.
