By adequately winterizing your home, you give it a chance to make it through winter without having any significant problems. Winterizing your roof is one of the most important ways to prepare your home for the cold winter months. Your roof is the best and the first line of defense your home has against the elements outside. It plays an important key role in protecting your home and keeping your family warm. As temperatures began to drop steadily, it is time to do some preventative roof maintenance to help your roof make it throughout the winter without preventable, costly repairs. Below are five things you can do to winterize your roof, according to your local roofing contractor in Surrey.

1. Thoroughly inspect your roof: make sure your shingles are in good condition. If you have shingles that are curled, cracked, or otherwise damaged, replace them before winter. Check for signs of damage on your flashing and replace or repair it as needed. If your roof has any significant damage, have it fixed by a professional before winter arrives.
2. Clean all Gutters: it is imperative to clean the gutters around your home before winter. This tends to be a job that no one enjoys, but it must be done keep your roof protected. When your gutters are clear, any rain or melting snow can drain properly away from your roof and your home. Once all the leaves have fallen from trees over your house, do a final cleaning of your gutters to remove all the debris and protect your roof, siding, foundation, and property.
3.  Cleaning your Downspouts: cleaning your downspouts is as important as cleaning your gutters. Without clean downspouts, the rain and melting snow from your gutters will not be able to drain correctly. Clean downspouts also keep mold from forming and lengthen the life of the downspout.
4. Attic Insulation: properly insulating your attic helps to prevent icicles and ice dams from forming on your roofing. Before the cold weather comes, ensure that your attic space is insulated and ventilated properly. This will not only prevent potential problems but will hold the heat inside your home better, putting less strain on your heating system.
5. Trim any Branches that Overhang: if there are limbs or tree branches hanging over your roof, trim them before winter. When snow and ice weigh down the branches, it can lead to disaster as the branches bend and break under the weight onto your home. It is best to trim any overhanging branches in the late fall.

A homeowner should never overlook winterizing their roof, especially in areas with colder weather. Follow the steps above to ensure that your home is prepared for the cold winter months, or call your local roofing contractor in Surrey to help you get it ready. Never just assume that your roof will make it throughout the winter without being winterized. It's always best to be proactive, so your roof is prepared for whatever old Man Winter throws at it.