Waiting for problems to arise before taking action is never a winning solution. It’s especially true for your roof. A few simple steps to take before and during the cold season will save you a lot of trouble.

What to do before winter sets in for good?

Clean your eavestroughs.

If possible, you will take care to remove the leaves before the first frost. These will obstruct the water drainage. During the freeze, the ice can deform the gutters by expanding. By capillary action, it is possible that the ice goes up and inserts itself under the shingles or behind the siding. In the medium and long term, these infiltrations will create mold and attack the structure.

Removing debris

It is suggested to sweep the entire surface for flat or low-slope roofs. This will ensure that the shingles are not damaged or rolled up. You will also have to take care of any nails that stick out and, if necessary, replace damaged shingles. Flat roofs should be kept free of debris. For sloped roofs, there is no need to climb and put yourself in danger; it is usually enough to observe from the street with binoculars to take note of defects.

Checking Seals and Flashings

All installed accessories create points of vulnerability at their junctions. Chimneys and vents require inspection twice a year, in the spring and fall. If you find any anomalies, you can re-seal, paint the flashings and replace those rusted or cracked. *Beware of roofs with welded elastomeric coatings. Some materials are not compatible with this coating. If in doubt, consult your roofer to use the right products.

Do I have to remove snow from my roof?

The weight of snow can vary: the more saturated it is, the heavier it is. But the structure of your roof tolerates a maximum load. It can weaken the structure, and the top can fall on your head if you are not careful.

For snow removal, it is possible to hire qualified people. If you want to do it yourself, you must use the right tools, but above all, follow the safety rules. No need to say using an axe to break the ice or any other tool that could damage the pavement should be avoided.

The benefits of proper snow removal

• You protect your structure from weakening or collapsing.
• You avoid the formation of ice barriers that allow infiltration.
• You prevent snow from entering the joints.

My roof is poorly insulated; what can I do to limit the inconvenience?

• Install heating cables. Note that this is an energy-consuming and unsightly option.
• Seal air leaks in the attic that are often responsible for heat loss and moisture problems. Check and caulk plumbing stacks, chimneys, electrical wiring, etc.
• Remove gutters for the winter to prevent ice from backing up. Note that the function of the gutters is to protect the foundation from water runoff, so this is a temporary solution.

Biennial maintenance of your roof will extend its useful life. Do not hesitate to consult our roofing specialists for more information on this subject. At Toiture Union, we have the expertise to help you save time and make an informed choice about your roofing.

Contact us for more information or for a free estimate.