Winterizing Your Home

Snow and Ice Damage Prevention for Asphalt Roofing, Siding, and Composite Decking

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior if you’re not prepared. Snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures pose risks to your asphalt roofing shingles, siding, and composite decking. Proper maintenance and prevention strategies can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s how to protect these key areas of your home this winter.

Roof: Protecting Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt roofing shingles are durable, but snow and ice can cause damage if left unchecked.

1. Prevent Ice Dams
   Ice dams form when snow melts on your roof, refreezes at the edges, and blocks proper drainage. This can lead to water seeping under your shingles. To prevent ice dams:
   • Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to regulate roof temperature.
   • Clean gutters and downspouts to allow melting snow to drain freely.
2. Remove Snow Safely
   Excess snow can stress your roof and lead to damage. Use a roof rake with a long handle to remove snow without climbing or damaging the shingles. Avoid scraping down to the roof surface to prevent granule loss. The goal is to get the snow down to an inch or two not to clear the roof completely. (Be careful when using a roof rake not to pull down on and damage your gutters.)
3. Inspect Flashing and Shingles
   Before winter sets in, check for cracked or missing shingles and ensure flashing around chimneys and vents is secure. Repairing these areas prevents water infiltration during freeze-thaw cycles.

Siding: Fiber Cement, Composite, and Vinyl

Fiber cement, composite, and vinyl siding are built to withstand harsh conditions, but heavy snow and ice can still cause problems if precautions aren’t taken.

1. Clear Snow Away from Siding
   Avoid allowing snow to pile against your siding, as trapped moisture can lead to staining or mildew. Use a shovel or snowblower to maintain at least 1-2 feet of clearance from the base of your siding.
2. Inspect for Cracks or Gaps
   Cold weather can make existing cracks or gaps worse, allowing water and ice to seep behind your siding. Seal any cracks with a high-quality exterior caulk before the freeze.
3. Avoid Direct Contact with Ice-Melting Products
   De-icing salts can damage the finish of composite and vinyl siding. Use sand or pet-friendly ice melt on nearby walkways to reduce the risk of damage.

Decking: Composite Decks

Composite decking is engineered to resist winter weather, but proper care ensures its longevity.

1. Clear Snow Regularly
   Use a plastic shovel or broom to remove snow from your deck. Shovel along the direction of the planks to avoid scratching the surface.
2. Prevent Ice Build-Up
   Ice can make your deck slippery. Use a calcium chloride-based ice melt that is safe for composite materials to reduce slip hazards without damaging the surface. Avoid using rock salt, which can leave permanent stains.
3. Inspect for Proper Drainage
   Check that water drains away from your deck. Pooling water from melting snow can refreeze, creating ice patches that add unnecessary stress to your decking material.

Here is a checklist to help you along!

Roofing Maintenance

• Inspect for Damage: Check for loose, missing, or cracked shingles that could let water seep in. Repair or replace them promptly.
• Clear Snow and Ice: Use a roof rake to safely remove snow buildup and prevent ice dams. Avoid scraping down to the shingles to preserve their protective granules.
• Clean Gutters: Ensure gutters and downspouts are free of debris to prevent water overflow and icicles forming.
• Check Flashing and Vents: Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

Siding Maintenance

• Look for Cracks and Gaps: Examine fiber cement, composite, or vinyl siding for cracks or loose panels. Seal any gaps with exterior caulk to prevent water or cold air from entering.
• Remove Snow Piles: Keep snow from piling against the base of your siding to reduce moisture-related issues like mold or mildew.
• Inspect Trim and Joints: Make sure trim and joints are secure to avoid cold drafts and water penetration.
• Use sand: to avoid damaging your siding with harsher chemicals in other de-icing materials.

Windows and Doors

• Seal Gaps: Apply weatherstripping and caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts and heat loss.
• Check Locks and Hinges: Ensure all locks and hinges work properly to keep windows and doors securely closed against winter winds.
• Add Insulation: Use draft stoppers at the base of doors and consider installing new door stops if needed.
• Inspect Storm Doors and Windows: If you have storm doors or windows, confirm they are properly sealed and functioning.

Deck Maintenance

• Clear Snow Regularly: Use a plastic shovel or broom to remove snow, working along the direction of the composite planks to avoid scratches.
• Use Safe Ice Melt: Choose a calcium chloride-based product to reduce ice on composite decking without causing surface damage.
• Inspect for Drainage: Make sure water and melting snow drain away from your deck to prevent refreezing and slipping hazards.
• Store or Cover Furniture: Protect outdoor furniture with weatherproof covers or store it indoors to prevent winter wear and tear.

Additional Maintenance Tips

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Cut back overhanging branches near your roof and siding to prevent damage from falling limbs during snowstorms.
• Inspect Walkways and Driveways: Seal cracks to prevent water from freezing and expanding, causing further damage.
• Check Foundation Grading: Ensure the ground slopes away from your home to prevent water from pooling around your foundation.
• Inspect Exterior Faucets: Turn off and drain outdoor faucets to avoid frozen pipes.

By completing these winter maintenance tasks, you’ll keep your home in top shape and avoid costly repairs. Need assistance? Contact us with any questions or if we can help anywhere along your home care journey!

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