How to Properly Winterize Your Roof in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Richmond

Winter can be a tough time for your roof. The combination of snow, ice, and wind can cause damage to your shingles, flashing, and gutters. If you don't properly winterize your roof, you could be facing costly repairs in the spring.

Here are five tips on how to properly winterize your roof:

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1. Clean your gutters and downspouts.

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to ice dams, which can damage your shingles and roof deck. Make sure to clean your gutters and downspouts in the fall before the first snow falls.  According to the Insurance Information Institute, clogged gutters and downspouts are the leading cause of roof water damage claims

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2. Inspect your roof for damage.

Look for any missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, or cracks in the roof deck. If you find any damage, have it repaired by a qualified roofing contractor before the winter arrives. A study by the National Roofing Contractors Association found that 60% of all roof damage is caused by storms.

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3. Trim trees and shrubs near your home.

Overgrown trees and shrubs can fall on your roof and damage it during a winter storm. Trim any trees and shrubs that are too close to your home before the winter arrives. The National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates that falling trees and branches cause over $1 billion in damage to homes each year.

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4. Install a snow rake.

A snow rake is a long-handled tool that you can use to remove snow from your roof. This is important because too much snow on your roof can put too much weight on it and cause it to collapse. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends that homeowners remove snow from their roofs when the accumulation reaches 6 inches or more.

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5. Insulate your attic.

Proper attic insulation can help to prevent heat loss from your home and keep your roof warm. This can help to prevent ice dams from forming. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that homeowners can save up to 11% on their heating and cooling costs by properly insulating their attics.

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Winterizing your roof is an important part of home maintenance. By following the five tips above, you can help to protect your roof from the winter elements and extend its lifespan.

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Don't wait until it's too late! Contact Douglas Roofing today to book a free roof inspection and learn how to properly winterize your roof. We'll help you identify any potential problems and recommend repairs or maintenance as needed. With Douglas Roofing on your side, you can be confident that your roof will be ready for the winter ahead.

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Click on the link below to book your free roof inspection today!

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Call us at (703) 555-1212 to speak with a qualified roofing contractor.