It’s that time of the year again, when the fall season winds down and temperatures begin to drop. Winter is coming—which means it’s time for holiday shopping, snow days, and last-minute home improvement projects before the weather gets really rough. 

While its probably not the most exciting winter activity you have planned this season, home maintenance is at the top of the list of most important things to do. In particular, it’s a good time to look at the roof while it’s still warm enough and winter weather hasn’t yet arrived in full swing. After all, by performing a roof inspection now, you can possibly save yourself from dealing with a lot of problems in the months of December to April.

Fortunately, with the help of a qualified roofing company such as Trek Contracting, getting the roof prepared for the harsh weather ahead is easy, affordable, and well worth it. Take a look at some of the most important things you should know about pre-winter roof maintenance from your friendly roofing experts at Trek Contracting, and start getting your home ready for the stormy season hits this year in Denver.

Before You Replace…

Replacing your roof is a major project, but if it needs it, it’s a good project to take on before the winter season is here. Then again, your roof might be fine with a few repairs, so make sure it’s properly evaluated by a professional company before making your decision. Understanding if your roof needs repairs or total replacement starts with the roof inspection. Whether you hire a professional or do this part yourself, here’s what you can expect to be evaluated during this process:

  • Interior Inspection: During this part of the process, you want to go to the attic and look for signs of water damage, leaks, dark spots, a sagging roof deck, or light showing in spots through the roof. These are all warning signs that your roof may need replacement or repairs, depending on the extent of the damage.

  • Exterior Inspection: Once the interior inspection is complete, it’s time to get on the roof. We recommend having a roofing contractor complete this part due to safety concerns. Plus, professionals know what to look for and what the signs mean in regard to your roof condition and needs for upkeep.

Here are some of the things that you need to look for:

  • Signs of damage to the shingles.
  • Any hint of mold fungi or similar concern.
  • Gutter issues such as clogged, leaking, or broken gutters.
  • Drain problems and pooling water collecting around your home or on the roof.
  • Foundation and other serious structural concerns.

Signs You Need a Roof Replacement

There is a big difference between roof repair work and a total roof replacement. Sometimes, repairs are no longer suitable responses to roof issues, and replacement will need to be considered. Below are the most common signs that replacement is necessary for a healthy roof during the winter season:

  • The Roof is Old: If the roof is 25 years old or older, then it may be time to replace. This is largely dependent on how well-maintained the roof is and the type of materials used in the initial installation. An inspection should tell you what you can expect out of your roof over the next season and whether it’s time to replace.

  • Curled Shingles: Curling can look like two different things. The first is cupping, which is when the edges turn upwards. The second is clawing. This occurs when the edges stay flat and the middle comes up. Both are signs of weathering and indicate that leaks are imminent. If the curling is severe, you’ll want to replace it promptly. 

  • Shingles are Missing: One or two shingles missing from your roof isn’t likely a sign that roof replacement is in order. However, if the roof looks more like a checkerboard, it’s probably a sign that replacement is necessary. Aside from better protection against the elements, a roof replacement in this case will look more attractive, too.

  • Cracked Shingles: Like missing shingles, one or two cracked shingles can be fixed. When the problem is affecting a lot of shingles, this usually means that the entire roof should be replaced.

  • Granules in the Gutter: If you’ve had the roof for 10-15 years and you’ve noticed bits of roofing materials clogging your gutters, then it’s an indication that your shingles are at least halfway through their lifespan. If the problem has been going on for a long while, then it’s best to replace the entire roof since quality goes way down as soon as the granules go away.

  • Sunlight from Your Attic: This is a significant issue. When light is shining through into your home interior, this means other problems like rain or snow can get in too. Consult a roofing contractor to determine the extent of the damage. They may be able to repair the hole, or suggest replacement options if the situation is severe enough.

  • Sagging Roof: This implies a structural issue and must be addressed ASAP. In other words, you’re in need of a replacement roof. Keep in mind that you’re not necessarily in imminent danger, but when snow starts accumulating on your roof or wind or hailstorms pound the house with excessive force, the problem can get worse very quickly.

Maintain Your Roof with Trek Contracting

The roof is a vital component of your home construction that affects the well-being and functionality of your house and property. Since 2014, our team of Owens Corning Preferred Contractors and CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicators have provided outstanding services for homeowners, including the following roofing services in Denver:

  • Roof Inspection
  • Roof Repair
  • Roof Replacement
  • Roofing Materials

If you’re in need of high-quality roofing inspections, repairs, or replacement roof solutions for your home, our master roofers at Trek Contracting are here for you. Give us a call to speak with one of our agents about our professional roof replacement services or fill out our online form to schedule your free, in-home quote.