Winter can be one of the harshest times of the year for the exterior of your home. Inclement weather, such as the recent Polar Vortex, can cause unwanted wear and tear to homes like yours. If proper action isn’t taken, this damage can lead to additional hassles such as mid-season roof repairs or replacements. However, there are some quick and easy steps that homeowners can take to lengthen the life of their roof during the winter.

1. Clean your gutters. Make sure that all materials are cleared from gutters throughout the season. This is especially important before a big storm hits. Full gutters can add extra weight and strain, leading to more likely damage. Routine maintenance will ensure that your gutters stay intact throughout the winter season, despite extreme weather.

2. Regularly inspect the interior of your home. After a heavy snow or ice storm, check your ceiling and baseboards for moisture. Moisture is one of the major visible signs that your roof has a leak. Regular inspection will ensure that you catch the leak quickly before the damages become costly.

3. Prevent ice-damming. Do you have icicles forming on your home? This is also known as ice-damming. While they may add a decorative, winter feel to your house, they are actually a sign of improper ventilation. Icicles indicate the presence of lost heat, which melts snow on your roof. Before you start to notice ice-damming make sure to call a certified contractor to complete an inspection this season.

4. Keep the heat in your home. Proper insulation will ensure that heat stays inside your home. And with the extreme temperatures we’ve been experiencing lately, you definitely want to make sure you keep in as much heat as possible! As an added bonus, proper insulation will also help cut down on your energy bills.

5. Hold off on repairs, if you can. Freezing temperatures, snow and rain fall can significantly affect the quality of work done on your home. Contractors who attempt to perform major repairs in these harsh conditions can leave homeowners with ruptured materials or even adhesive failure. If you’re not sure, ask your contractor!

Bonus Tip: Mark your calendars now for roof cleaning and maintenance before next winter is here. A freshly cleaned and well-maintained roof will ensure that your home is in tip-top condition while helping to prevent wear and tear.

What other tips do you have for protecting your roof in the winter? Leave them below in the comments!