Alberta is no stranger to the harsh realities of winter weather.
Heavy snowfall, extremely cold temperatures, and fluctuating weather patterns are common conditions that can affect the integrity of your roof. Without proper attention, these conditions may lead to structural damage, ice dams, or leaks.
Taking steps to prepare your roof for winter before problems arise helps your roof continue to function properly and maintain its structural integrity. Well before the first snowfall of the season, you should consider how you might better protect your roof from damage brought by Alberta winters.
We’ve compiled a list of winter roof care tips to get you started.
6 WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR ROOF FOR ALBERTAN WINTERS
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and improper drainage. Once winter hits, heavy snowfall on your roof will have nowhere to go, which may result in overflow, ice dams, leaks, or other structural problems.
Regular maintenance, including clearing debris, checking for damage, and ensuring proper water flow, helps safeguard your home from water-related issues during the winter months. - Trim Overhanging Branches
When winter hits, you don’t want to risk overhanging branches becoming unstable from the weight of heavy snow. Trimming tree branches not only protects your home but also reduces the risk of branches falling on people or property during winter storms.
If you aren’t an experienced tree trimmer, we recommend hiring an arborist or trimming company for this service. - Seal Leaks and Gaps
Sealing cracks, leaks, and gaps is a crucial step in preparing your roof for Alberta winters. It will help you maintain your home’s insulation, protect against water intrusion, prevent heat loss, and avoid ice dam formation by supporting a consistent roof temperature.
You will want to pay extra attention to specific trouble spots, such as around vents, chimneys, skylights, and attic hatches since they’ll be more vulnerable to leaks. - Snow Removal
Heavy snowfall resting on your roof can lead to structural stress, ice dam formation, and potential leaks. Although you usually don’t have to worry about removing snow from your roof, staying aware of snow levels will help you keep on top of any action you should take.
When snowfall amounts exceed normal expectations, or when your roof starts to give signs it’s under stress, you should consider hiring a trusted roofing team to complete the removal. They will be able to remove the snow safely and without causing damage to your home’s roofing material. - Build an Emergency Repair Kit
Some homeowners, especially those who are confident in their ability to complete minor repairs on their own, may want to build an emergency repair kit. Your kit might include sealant, roof patches, and spare shingles that you keep on hand to address minor issues promptly.
Of course, in the event of extensive damage or extreme conditions, we recommend you get a professional. - Professional Roof Maintenance
Hiring a professional roofer ensures that your roof is well-maintained and in good condition for the winter months. Roofing experts can identify and address any hidden issues you might miss in your own inspection and will help ensure the longevity of your roof.
Schedule a professional roof inspection and maintenance service before winter to best prepare for any challenging weather conditions your roof might endure.
THE BENEFITS OF WINTER ROOF MAINTENANCE IN ALBERTA
Even though harsh winters are a fact of life in Alberta, too few homeowners prioritize winter maintenance. Preparing your roof for winter conditions provides numerous benefits, including:
- Longer roof longevity
- Increased home value
- Safety of you and your family
- Long-term cost efficiency
Different materials will hold up to winter conditions better than others. If investing in more durable roofing material suited for Alberta’s climate is not on your radar right now, it is something to keep in mind when it comes time for you to have your roof re-done.
You don’t have to tackle roof maintenance and winter preparations on your own. Hire a trusted roofing professional for inspections and maintenance, and trust them to make sure your roof is in good shape to face Alberta winter conditions.
