Five things to help prepare your home for winter
Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles. It is always good to have a roofing contractor check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, flashings, or roof penetrations prior to winter. These areas are the primary protective components for your roofing system. They prevent water and snow infiltration from getting to the interior of your home causing wood damage, mold, and decay.
Replace damaged or defective windows and doors. Windows and doors are the leading cause of air infiltration. If exterior temperatures get into your home, then your heating system must work harder to keep room temperatures where you want them. This can cause stress on the heating system and more often cost you more money.
Seal all penetrations. Any pipes, hoses, electrical lines or even doors and windows should be sealed properly to prevent air and water entering your home. These areas are often overlooked due to the existing sealants cracking or falling out of place at different times. Using silicone sealant versus a latex caulk will resist drying out and resist expansion and contraction.
Clean gutters and down spouts. Leaves and debris should be removed from gutters and down spouts at least twice a year to prevent blockage (fall and spring). If you live on a heavily wooded lot or near large, wooded areas then more cleanouts may be required. In addition, gutters should be resecured to the home occasionally as ice build-up causes the fasteners to loosen over time.
Replace damaged siding or capping. This will prevent water from getting to the substrate and causing rot or mold. Replacing missing siding will also prevent more siding from getting damaged from high winds.
You can count on C&C Family Roofing and Siding for all your siding and roofing needs. Call 215-999-6248. www.roofdoc.com
