With winter on the horizon, the days are getting shorter and the nights are getting longer. Temperatures are dropping rapidly, and all you want to do is stay indoors with your family.But is your roof ready to lend its support to keep your family warm?
Keeping your roof in top shape is a year-round endeavour, but maintaining it during the winter months is even more crucial. Between the freezing temperatures and pelting snow,during winter is when your roof will take the biggest hit. Taking the time to safeguard your roof properly, and by extension your home, is paramount. Let’s take a look at the top 5 tips to maintain your metal roof during the gruelling winter.

Keep gutters clean

If you live in an area that receives heavy snowfall, you should bear in mind that it settles in layers on your roof. Not only that, but it also collects in your gutters and like debris, will block them. This becomes a problem because once the snow melts, it will overflow or seep into your home. Alternatively, the snow can also settle over any debris already lodged in your gutters. So even when it melts, they debris will stop it from draining out the right way.Both these instances spell havoc for your home. Prevent them from occurring by clearing
out your gutters at least once in two weeks.

Trim trees and branches
Metal roofs are exceedingly robust and are known for their durability and longevity. However, if you have trees or stray branches growing close to your roof, we recommend trimming them before the onset of winter. While these branches won’t be able to damage your roof, constant abrasion can cause the finish to wear off. Ensuring there are no trees near your roof also ensures no debris falls on to your roof or into your gutters.

Brush away debris
Metal roofs today have smoother surfaces and finishes that help them shed debris. However, there might still be some areas that debris will get stuck. In such a case, you will have to get on your roof and remove it yourself. Remember to exercise caution while walking on your roof, especially in winter. While inspecting your metal roof, remember to use a brush or a broom to sweep the debris off the side. Don’t use a hose or try to dislodge debris with water. Snow will already have settled on your roof making it slippery. Water will only cause your roof to become even more slippery, and this could result in your seriously injuring yourself. It would bode for you to hire a professional to do the cleaning and maintenance work for you.

Pay attention to what’s underneath
Metal roofs are extremely energy efficient as they reflect heat and light. They also don’t allow hot or cold air to enter or leave your home. With a metal roof over your head, you can be sure that your energy costs are significantly reduced. However, while metal roofs are energy efficient, there is a way for you to further this feature. Adding or replacing your attic insulation and ensuring your roof and attic have proper ventilation will keep your home comfortable and fresh in any season.

Make use of your snow guards
Depending on the style of your roof, snow will either stay on it until it melts or will fall off if it is sloped in any way. However, when there is heavy snowfall, it does prove dangerous for anyone walking around your home, as large clumps of snow and ice can fall without warning. The best way to prevent this is by using snow guards. Snow guards are installed on your metal roof to ensure snow, ice and frozen precipitation stay in place. They also help
large chunks of snow and ice to melt and slid off in smaller pieces. Snow guards are of great help to anyone with a metal roof as they prevent those below from getting seriously injured.
With these simple tips, you can prepare yourself and your roof for a rough winter. You can contact us at Dura Roof for any of your roofing requirements. We are happy to help you from selection to installation and even maintenance.