As a Utah homeowner, you must understand how to protect your flat roof from snow damage, especially with the snow starting to fall.
Snow might be inconvenient, but it can also create major problems for your home. Unattended snow loads can lead to ice dams, leaking, and structural flaws.
Here are five tips to help you protect your roof this upcoming winter season.
1. Water Proof Your Flat Roof
A great way to strengthen your roof’s defense against rain, ice, and snow is to waterproof it using waterproof membranes. This watertight sheet will last about 20-30 years. Waterproofing seals cracks, prevents leaks, protects the surface, and will help keep your roof structurally sound.
2. Regularly Inspect Your Roof
You should inspect your roof with the changing seasons. As you transition into winter, you specifically want to check that draining avenues are in working order, remove any leaves or other debris, and check the flashings for caulking flaws. A professional inspection is the most effective way to ensure that your roof is ready for winter.
3. Clear Gutters and Drain Spouts
While doing your yearly fall cleanup, be sure to clean out all gutters and drain spouts. Your flat roof should have at least one drain hub. If you notice pooling or clogging, contact your roofing company for assistance.
If your drains are blocked with leaves, twigs, or other debris, that can cause a leak when melted snow turns to water and has nowhere to go. Blocked drains could also lead to more serious problems like ice dams.
4. Make Sure Your Roof is Properly Insulated
An attic acts as an insulation buffer between the heat inside of a home and the roof. Flat roofs do not offer the same attic space as a sloped roof. Without proper insulation, the indoor heat can cause the snow on your roof to melt. Protect your flat roof from excess damage by making sure it is properly insulated before winter hits.
5. Clear Away Snow
Be proactive about clearing large amounts of snowfall from your roof. Take caution as you are clearing away snow so as not to damage any pipes or vents. Instead of climbing on the slippery roof, we recommend using a snow rake. If snow loads become too great for you to safely handle, call in a professional for assistance.
The Roof Doctor Can Help
The licensed roofing contractors at The Roof Doctor can help you protect your flat roof from snow damage this winter. We perform storm damage repairs and snow removal in addition to our installation services. You can count on us to fix any issues so that you can rest worry-free this winter.
We serve various cities in Utah, including the Salt Lake Valley, Tooele, Layton, Ogden, Bountiful, Orem, and Provo. Contact us today.