AUTUMN TO-DO LIST FOR A SAFER, WARMER WINTER

The days are growing shorter, but it seems that that autumn to-do list keeps growing longer. Along with putting the gardens to bed and raking leaves, prioritize preventative measures to keep you and your home safe and dry during the coming winter months. Roof damage caused by wind, snow, and ice is common. Take the time now to assess the condition of your roof and take action in order to avoid a larger problem come winter.

 

Fedale Sr. Project Consultant Jasen Maciey suggests starting with a walk around your property. Look for loose siding and make the necessary repairs in order to prevent leaks. Pay particular attention to any obstructions that may impact the functionality of your roof. Check trees adjacent to the roof of your home and trim any dead branches. While the appearance of a loose shingle may not seem like a cause for concern, it’s likely that the damage is greater than what meets the eye, Jasen says. Moreover, the potential for further harm increases as winter winds, snow, and ice make their annual appearances.

 

Your roof should be free of debris, as leaves and twigs can clog gutters. Add having your gutters cleaned as a part of your to-do list! Clogged gutters can lead to ice damming and may cause the gutters to pull away from the fascia of the roof. 

 

Be observant during heavy rains this fall by looking in your attic or crawlspace for leaks. From mold growth to eventual drywall damage, an undetected roof leak has a domino effect. Best to remediate the situation while the weather is still temperate. 

 

If a roof problem arises during the winter months, know you can always give G. Fedale a call. Should the cold temperatures prevent a full repair, we can always tarp the affected area to keep you safe and dry until the weather warms. 

 

Apart from keeping the interior of your home dry, we also want you to stay warm. Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s windows and exterior doors. Weatherstrip and caulk where necessary to prevent air leakage. Replace older windows with more energy-efficient ones. An especially drafty home may require an insulation assessment. As a full-service contractor, we can remedy many of these issues or refer you to a qualified specialist.