As the Pacific Northwest transitions from the rainy days of early winter to the freezing temperatures of January, February, and March, your roof, skylights, and gutters face unique challenges. Preparing your home for the cold, icy months ahead is essential to avoid costly damage and ensure your roof can handle the season’s harsh conditions. Read on to see how you can ensure your roof, skylights, and gutters are winter-ready, and why it’s crucial to act now.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam forms when ice or snow on your roof melts, flows down toward the eaves, and refreezes due to colder temperatures at the roof’s edge. Over time, this buildup creates a barrier, trapping water behind it. This water can seep under shingles, leak into your attic, and cause significant damage to your home’s interior.

Ice dams aren’t limited to areas with heavy snow; freezing rain or a sudden cold snap after a rainy period can produce similar problems. Ensuring your roof is prepared can help prevent these destructive frozen formations.

Why Ice-Proofing Matters

Neglecting winter roof preparation can lead to several risks:

• Roof damage: Ice dams, heavy icicles, and trapped moisture can loosen shingles, warp decking, and damage your roof structure. Decking is the structural base layer of your roof that serves as the foundation for all other roofing components. It’s typically made of wood, such as plywood or oriented strand board, and is installed over the roof’s frame.
• Leaks and water damage: Water trapped behind ice dams or in clogged gutters can infiltrate your home, causing leaks, mold growth, and insulation damage.
• Skylight problems: Improperly sealed or damaged skylights can let in water, leading to interior damage and heat loss.
• Gutter collapse: Gutters filled with ice and debris become heavy and may pull away from your home, creating further roofing and structural damage.

How to Prepare Your Roof

Inspect and repair damage

• Look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles caused by earlier storms or wind.
• Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for gaps or deterioration.
• Repair any issues before freezing weather exacerbates the damage.

Clear roof debris

• Remove leaves, branches, and dirt from your roof. These materials trap moisture, which can freeze and create ideal conditions for ice dams.
• Ensure the roof surface is clear for optimal drainage.

Prevent ice dams with ventilation and insulation

• Ensure your attic is well-insulated to prevent warm air from escaping and melting snow unevenly on your roof.
• Proper attic ventilation keeps your roof at a consistent temperature, reducing the risk of ice dams.

Skylight Care for Winter

Inspect skylight seals and flashing

• Check for cracks or gaps that could allow water or cold air to seep in.
• Secure any loose flashing to prevent leaks during heavy rain or melting ice.

Clean skylight glass and frames

• Dirt and debris can block natural light and reduce energy efficiency.
• Keeping skylights clean also helps prevent mold and water pooling on the surface.

Gutter Maintenance

Thoroughly clean gutters and downspouts

• Clear out any remaining leaves and debris from fall to prevent clogs.
• Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof or forming ice dams.

Inspect for damage

• Look for sagging, cracks, or loose sections of your gutter system.
• Repair or replace damaged areas to ensure water flows away from your roof and foundation.

Install gutter guards or heating cables

• Gutter guards prevent debris from building up, and heating cables can melt ice before it forms.

The Risks of DIY Winter Roof Maintenance

Winter roof maintenance is about preparation, and it’s also about safety! Climbing on a slippery, icy roof poses serious risks for unequipped individuals. Incorrectly removing ice or debris can also damage your roof. Hiring licensed and insured professionals ensures your roof gets the care it needs without putting your safety or home at risk.

Plan Ahead to Beat Winter’s Challenges

January and February may feel far away, but winter roofing work can be delayed by fluctuating weather. Scheduling your inspection or repairs now ensures you’re ahead of the game. Once the leaves have fallen and before freezing temperatures set in, take the time to winterize your roof, skylights, and gutters.

Ready to Protect Your Home?

At Sunnyside Roofing Services, we specialize in preparing homes for winter’s toughest conditions. From roof inspections and skylight sealing to gutter maintenance and ice dam prevention, our team has the expertise to keep your home safe, dry, and comfortable all season long.

Contact us today at 503-841-2587 to schedule your winter roof inspection and secure your spot before the icy weather arrives!