Winter is the most detrimental time of year for your roof. Snow, wind and heavy rain storms create huge amounts of damage to roofs across the UK every year, with this annual threat costing homeowners thousands in repairs.
To give yourself the best chance of avoiding a costly bill, we’ve listed 7 simple steps to protect your roof over the winter months.
1. Remove ice and snow
Ice and snow are hugely damaging to your roof. If left untreated they can cause severe leaks and the additional pressure could even result in collapses. Weather permitting, try to remove snow and ice as soon as possible or seek help from a roof maintenance professional. Never attempt climb on your own roof, this is highly dangerous.
2. Clean your gutters
Ensuring that your gutters are kept clean is an essential part of winter roof care. Debris such as leaves and twigs cast around by strong winds can pile up in your gutters, causing water to pool in them instead of flowing through to your drain. Once this happens the water can soak through your walls and can cause internal damage to your home which can be extremely expensive to replace.
3. Check for broken slates and tiles
One sure-fire sign that your roof is at risk of leaks is broken tiles and slates. Even the smallest crack or chip can leak with water and cost you thousands if left alone, so endeavour to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
4. Remove moss and ivy
Another hugely damaging factor to roofs is a build-up of moss and ivy. Both hold water and can result in leaks; we suggest using a product that has potassium salts or fatty acids to stop these harmful plants in their tracks and prevent them from reoccurring.
5. Check your insulation
It’s vital that you check your roof insulation regularly too. Any holes in your insulative material create a freezing temperature in your loft during winter, sending your heating bills skyrocketing. We suggest you check carefully around any vents, windows or chimneys; these are the places where holes are most likely to occur, so aim to ensure that there’s sufficient sealant around the insulation so the cold can’t get in.
6. Keep your roof clean
Flying twigs and branches whipped up by strong wintry winds can scrape or damage your roof’s tiles. To minimise the risk of this happening, we recommend you trim any overhanging trees or branches at least 3 metres away from your roof.
7. Check flashing and vents
One of the most delicate areas of your roof is your chimney and as such you should regularly check that your flashing hasn’t been dislodged or peeled away from the brickwork. Structures that penetrate your roof such as vents should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure the flashing is dressed/adhered to your roof isn’t coming away from the roof.
Need more help? For expert help and advice or to arrange a roof inspection speak to our friendly team today Call: 01484 866 772