Prepare Your Home Exterior for Winter: A Checklist

Aug 14, 2024

At Roof Works we know now is a great time to prepare your home for the fall and winter seasons by identifying potential problems with your roof, siding, or gutters before they become costly problems.

Why inspect your roof, siding, and gutters now?

  • Avoid the fall rush: Contractors throughout Fredericksburg get booked up quickly as fall approaches. Scheduling now ensures you get a timely inspection and potential repairs.
  • Identify potential issues: Early detection of problems like leaks, damage, or clogs can prevent more extensive and expensive repairs later.
  • Prepare your home for winter: Addressing issues now will help protect your home from harsh winter weather conditions.

A great way to begin to prepare your home for winter is by conducting a preliminary walk-around inspection of your home exterior, and if you encounter any issues you cannot resolve or should need to be handled by a professional, call Roof Works of VA to schedule an inspection day that works for you and your family.

Roof Checklist:

  • Check your roof by looking for missing or damaged shingles, noting the type of shingle (asphalt, metal, composite, etc.) that might require targeted repairs. Asphalt shingles are prone to cracking and curling at the edges over time, while metal shingles can develop dents or rust. A metal roof is designed for long-lasting durability and withstanding extreme weather but if you have a metal roof check for damaged or disfigured panels, flashings, and seams. Let the Roof Works roof inspection team do the major inspection on top of your roof, keep your own inspection on ground level only.
  • Check for clogged gutters and downspouts that can cause water backup under the roof. A clogged downspout may indicate a blockage further down the system.
  • Check for proper ventilation in the attic by checking vents and soffits for blockages. We can offer suggestions on the best method to clean or replace clogged vents if needed. Proper ventilation will help to prevent moisture buildup and roof rot.
  • Check the trees around your home, and trim any tree branches that overhang the roof by at least 6 feet to avoid scraping and potential damage. Consider hiring a professional for high branches.
  • The Roof Works team can also check flashing around chimneys, and skylights for signs of wear or tear and suggest remediation. Flashing is a waterproof material that seals gaps around roof penetrations to prevent leaks.

Our Roof Advice

Don’t wait for problems, Roof Works of VA offers a comprehensive roof inspection, identifying issues and providing tailored solutions to fit your home budget.

Siding Checklist:

  • Check your home siding for cracks, holes, or loose panels, especially around windows, doors, and chimneys. Our team recommends looking closely at areas exposed to direct sunlight or harsh weather conditions.
  • Check for signs of water damage (warping, peeling paint), mold, or mildew growth. The Roof Works team can suggest methods to address any underlying moisture issues that may be causing problems, like clogged gutters or improper drainage.
  • You can clean your home siding with a mild detergent solution (consult manufacturer’s recommendations for specific siding material). Different types of siding materials require different cleaning solutions. One example is vinyl siding, this material can be cleaned with a mixture of dish soap and water, while cedar siding should be cleaned with a special wood cleaner.
  • Check for gaps! Try to re-caulk any gaps around windows, doors, chimneys, and other penetrations to prevent leaks. Use a high-quality caulk suitable for exterior applications. Caulk should be applied in a smooth, even bead and allowed to cure completely before exposing it to moisture. Feel free to ask our team for suggestions.

Our Siding Advice

Winterizing your home in our area is a necessity, our team can assist by offering a detailed siding inspection to identify all repair or replacement needs before the weather turns!

Gutter Checklist:

  • Check for debris. Try to clean gutters and downspouts by removing leaves, debris, and blockages. Consider using a gutter cleaning tool for safety. A gutter cleaning tool can help you remove debris from gutters without having to climb a ladder.
  • Ensure gutters have a proper slope of 1/4 inch per 10 feet towards downspouts for proper drainage. You can use a level to check the slope.
  • Check for any leaks or cracks in the gutter system and repair them promptly using patching materials or gutter sealant.
  • Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogging from leaves and debris. Roof Works offers Leaf Guards that can help to reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning.

Our Home Gutter Advice

If you need help, Roof Works can inspect your gutters, offer suggestions to ensure optimal drainage, and review affordable options for a leaf guard system.

Additional Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter:

  • Consider scheduling your fall maintenance for a dry day with mild temperatures for optimal working conditions. Avoid performing maintenance tasks on wet or windy days.
  • Take before-and-after pictures during your maintenance to document the condition of your exterior and track any changes over time. This can be helpful for insurance purposes or if you notice any new problems develop later on.

Call your neighbor, Roofworks of VA, to schedule a professional inspection for your roof, siding, and gutters if you notice any significant damage, have concerns, or haven’t had one in the past two years. We will help you identify potential problems early on before they become more serious and expensive to repair.

Roofworks of VA is a trusted local contractor specializing in roofing, siding, and gutters.

With over 25 years of experience, we offer comprehensive services to protect your home from the elements.

Why choose Roofworks of VA:

  • Class A licensed and insured: Guaranteeing professional and reliable service.
  • Master Shingle Applicator Certified: Ensuring top-quality roofing installations.
  • Local experts: Deep understanding of Fredericksburg’s climate and roofing needs.
  • Comprehensive services: Roofing, siding, gutters, and repairs all under one roof.
  • Excellent customer service: Dedicated to your satisfaction.

By combining your proactive maintenance efforts with the expertise of Roofworks of VA, you can ensure your home is protected from the challenges of the fall season and beyond. Contact us today 540-786-4552.

Roof Works of VA
12108 Chewning Lane
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22407

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