Winter is here, and Michiganders need to ensure not only the safety of their roof but also its performance. As you prepare for the colder months for your home, it’s important to make sure that your roof is ready for the harsh Michigan winter. Your roof provides a fundamental and necessary line of defense between your family and winter, so it’s essential to keep the roof in excellent condition year after year, especially before winter arrives. 

That said, there are specific steps you can take to properly winterize your roof and help protect your home this winter.

If you haven’t taken the following steps, you’ll want to get started on them as soon as possible.


Take a close look at your roof.

Although some damage can be seen from the ground, the best way to check the roof for damages is to get onto your roof and inspect it closely. By getting on the roof, you’ll be able to spot any damage and weak spots. Keep an eye out for missing shingles, rot, or stains, as these are obvious red flags for potential issues. These could indicate that you need some work on your roof before winter. Even minor damage can lead to significant problems.


Check your caulking and flashings.

When caulk becomes wrinkled or is missing altogether, it needs to be replaced. Any loose or missing flashings also need to be taken care of, as this helps ensure that your roof works how it was designed to work throughout the winter.


Check and Clean out those gutters.

Many homeowners check their gutters during the fall due to leaves gathering in them, but many fail to realize that it’s also imperative to check your gutters before winter as well. If one fails to do this, melting snow might not drain properly, and the blocked gutters could lead to problems for your roof and home.


Check for hanging tree branches that are hanging over your roof.

As the snow and ice accumulate this winter, it can cause branches to become heavy and potentially snap the branch altogether. If branches are hanging too close to your home and over your roof, a compromised tree branch could snap and cause damage to your roof and home. Trim any branches that could cause issues ahead of winter to prevent any damage from occurring.


Check the attic.

It’s vital to include checking the attic as part of your winterization process because if the attic does not have proper ventilation, it can lead to mold, mildew, or worse. This type of damage can be harmful to you and your family’s health and the well-being of your home.


Check for damage from pests.

Weather isn’t the only thing that can cause damage to your roof. Pests, in the form of insects, birds, or even rodents, can cause damage to your home and can cause significant problems in the winter. Unfortunately, these types of pests tend to seek shelter during the winter months, so it’s essential to make sure they’re not seeking refuge within your attic and home.


Inspect for inside damage.

Along with checking for damage to the exterior of your home, it’s also important to check the ceilings in your home for damage. Water stains on the ceilings can indicate leaks within your roof. When you’re able to identify this damage early, you’re able to address it earlier without added expenses once a problem occurs.


Reach out for help winterizing.

Upon inspecting your roof, if you have identified potential problem areas, it’s a good idea to connect with your local roofing expert. They can help you develop a plan to correct the problem areas, including repairs or replacements. Getting to the problem early will help save you money and keep you safe during the winter.