It’s Getting Cold Out There: Winterize Your Home

Proactive steps to prevent damage, stay comfortable, and lower your bills

Texas may be a warm state most of the year, but those of us who live here know how harsh the occasional winter storm can be. Remember the “Snowpocalypse” of 2021? A massive Arctic blast sent temperatures plummeting into single digits, blanketed cities in snow and ice, and left millions of residents without power for days. We may not see another winter storm of such epic proportions soon, but it doesn’t take a natural disaster to send a chill through your house. An aging roof and other unmaintained areas around the home can lead to less efficient heating and cooling, not to mention costly repairs from the damages compounding as time goes by.

You can help prevent these problems by proactively winterizing your roof and other features of your home. Here are a few key areas to check out as the temperature drops. 

On the Roof

• Shingles: Look for loose, missing, or rotted shingles, which could allow water into the home. Discoloration on the roof could also show a leaky area. 
• Flashing and caulking: Flashing refers to thin strips of metal that cover joints between the roof and the chimney, vents, and other areas. Typically, you seal the edges of the flashing with caulk. Make sure these areas are free of cracks or coming loose.   
• Gutters: Clear the gutters of leaves and other debris that could prevent proper drainage and cause a build-up of snow and ice. 
• Chimney: Reseal any gaps between the brick and shingles. If you don’t have one already, consider installing a chimney cap, which can reduce fire hazards, prevent water damage, and keep animals out. 
• Attic and ceilings: From the inside, inspect the underside of the roof and interior ceilings to look for cracks or water stains.

Everywhere Else

• Trees: Trim branches so they’re not touching or overhanging the roof. When the wind blows, they can scrape the protective coating off the shingles. When it snows or ices, limbs get heavy and break, which can cause consequential roof damage. 
  • Insulation: In addition to a well-maintained roof, an adequate amount of insulation in your attic helps regulate the temperature indoors, keeping you comfortable and your bills lower.
• Doors and windows: Check for any cold drafts coming into the house through gaps around the door and window frames. Seal any cracks, gaps, and holes with caulk or weatherstripping. 
• Siding: Re-caulk any visible gaps and cracks, but also check for soft and rotten areas that could use replacing. 

Proceed with Caution

It may go without saying, but be extremely careful if you get on your roof! Wear grippy shoes, secure your ladder against the house, and consider using a safety harness and rope. 

Of course, if you need help or have questions, call the pros. Peak Roofing and Construction doesn’t just build new roofs; we also repair old ones. We can help you inspect and winterize your home, repair and replace windows and siding, and ensure you stay cozy and warm for many winters in the future. 

Remember, we’re always here for you. And just a phone call away.

Jeff Riss,

President, Peak Roofing & Construction