How to Get Your Roof Ready for Winter with a Roof Survey

As the winter months approach, preparing your home for the cold season is essential, and your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your property from harsh weather conditions.

Snow, ice, wind and rain can take their toll on your roof, leading to leaks, damage, and costly repairs if preventative measures are not taken.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting your roof ready for winter, including why a roof survey is essential, how to prevent roof leaks and the importance of hiring an RICS chartered surveyor for expert advice.

We’ll also answer some of the most commonly asked questions about roof inspections and winter preparations, ensuring you’re fully equipped to protect your home.

Why Prepare Your Roof for Winter?

Preparing your roof for winter is more than just a seasonal task; it’s a critical preventative measure to safeguard your home from the elements.

Here’s why it’s important:

• Prevent Leaks and Water Damage: Snow and ice accumulation can cause significant damage to roofs. Melting snow that refreezes can create ice dams, blocking water drainage and leading to leaks that damage your ceilings, insulation, and walls.
• Extend the Lifespan of Your Roof: Routine roof surveys and maintenance, especially before winter, help extend the life of your roof by catching and addressing minor issues before they escalate.
• Improve Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained roof provides better insulation, reducing heating costs in winter by preventing heat loss.

What is a Roof Survey?

A roof survey is a detailed inspection of the condition of your roof, conducted by a professional such as a RICS qualified surveyor. This survey identifies any existing or potential issues before they turn into costly repairs, especially before the onset of winter.

For a detailed understanding of roof surveys, be sure to check out our blog post titled “What You Need to Know About Roof Surveys.”

How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Now that we understand the importance of a roof survey, let’s look at some practical steps you can take to winterise your roof:

1. Schedule a Roof Survey

Hiring a RICS qualified surveyor to perform a professional roof survey is the first step. At Novello we are trained to identify potential issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Our inspections will highlight any immediate concerns and give you peace of mind heading into winter.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters are one of the leading causes of roof damage during winter. Leaves, debris, and dirt prevent water from draining properly, which can lead to water pooling on the roof, ice dam formation, and leaks. Clean your gutters and downspouts thoroughly and install gutter guards if necessary.

3. Inspect and Replace Damaged Roof Tiles/Slates

Cracked, loose, or missing tiles/slates can lead to leaks, especially under heavy snow or rain. Replace any damaged tiles/slates before winter sets in. Broken tiles/slates expose the underlay and structural components of the roof to moisture, which can cause rot and weaken the structure over time.

4. Check Flashing and Seals

Flashing is used to seal and protect areas of the roof where two surfaces meet, such as around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Check for rust, damage, or loose flashing and have it repaired or replaced. Well-maintained flashing prevents water from seeping into these vulnerable areas.

5. Trim Overhanging Trees

Winter storms can cause overhanging tree branches to break and fall onto your roof, causing damage. Trim any branches that hang over your roof to minimise this risk and reduce accelerated deterioration of the roof coverings.

6. Insulate Your Attic

Proper attic insulation helps to regulate the temperature in your home and prevent the formation of ice dams. An ice dam forms when heat from inside the home escapes, melting the snow on the roof. As the melted snow (water) flows down toward the colder, unheated eaves, it refreezes, creating a blockage or “dam.” This ice buildup prevents further snowmelt from properly draining, causing water to back up and seep beneath into the home. This can lead to damage to the roof, insulation and other structural materials. The key solution to prevent ice dams is proper insulation, which helps keep the roof’s surface temperature consistent.

7. Clear Debris from the Roof

Moss, algae, and debris can retain moisture, which can cause roof damage and lead to leaks. Clear your roof of any buildup before winter, and consider applying a moss-resistant treatment.

Why Hire an RICS qualified surveyor?

A RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) qualified surveyor is highly qualified and trained to perform detailed roof surveys. They provide an expert assessment that goes beyond a standard roof inspection, ensuring that all structural and weatherproofing elements of your roof are thoroughly evaluated. Their accreditation ensures you receive an unbiased, professional report with recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

Commonly Asked Questions about Roof Inspections and Winter Preparation

1. Why is a roof survey important before winter?

A roof survey helps identify potential issues such as leaks, structural damage, or insulation problems that could worsen during winter. Addressing these concerns early prevents costly repairs down the line and ensures your home is protected from harsh winter conditions.

2. Which parts of my roof can be surveyed?

A roof inspection offers a comprehensive assessment of your roof’s condition, including those hard-to-reach areas. Here at Novello, we use drone technology in our roof surveys, allowing us to deliver detailed insights on:

• The expected lifespan of your roof
• The condition of your roof tiles/slates
• Potential leaks or areas that could become problematic in the future
• Any signs of roof sagging

In addition to this, drone roof surveys will examine other essential components of your roof, such as:

• Chimneys
• Parapets
• Flat roofs
• Guttering
• Flashing

3. How much does a roof inspection cost?

The cost of a roof inspection varies depending on the size of the roof, the type of survey required and the complexity of the job. Contact us for a quote today.

4. How often should I get my roof inspected?

It’s recommended to have your roof inspected at least once a year, preferably in the autumn before winter sets in. Regular inspections ensure that minor issues are caught early and can be addressed before they lead to bigger problems.

5. What are the signs that my roof needs repairs?

Signs that your roof may need repairs include:

• Cracked or missing tiles/slates
• Visible sagging or structural deformities
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Leaks during storms or after snow melts

6. What can I expect from a Novello Roof Survey?

At Novello, our roof surveys are conducted by highly skilled RICS surveyors. We begin by evaluating the property to determine the most effective survey method, often utilising advanced drone technology. Our surveyors leverage real-time drone footage, combined with their expertise, to identify any potential issues on your roof. This approach allows us to deliver a detailed, cost-effective report.

Using drones enables us to inspect hard-to-reach areas quickly and safely, without the need for scaffolding. This ensures a thorough and efficient inspection, leaving no problem areas overlooked.

Following the inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report that outlines the condition of your roof, along with high-resolution images of any identified issues. With a Novello drone survey, you not only gain access to expert analysis but also guidance on the next steps to take for maintaining or repairing your roof.

7. What should I do if my roof leaks during winter?

If you notice a leak during winter, it’s important to act quickly. Place a bucket to catch the water and prevent further damage to your home. Contact a professional roofing contractor immediately for an emergency repair. Depending on the severity of the leak, temporary measures may be taken until the weather allows for a permanent fix.

Conclusion

Winter can be a tough test for your roof, but with the right preparation, you can prevent common problems like leaks and structural damage. By scheduling a roof survey with a RICS surveyor, performing regular maintenance, and addressing small issues before they worsen, you’ll ensure your roof is ready to handle the winter’s challenges. Following the steps in this article will help protect your home and save you from costly repairs in the future.

Our RICS-certified drone roof surveyors are independent experts with years of experience. We are dedicated to helping our local communities make informed property decisions through precise and dependable roof inspections. To learn more or to schedule your survey, contact us today.