Lansing, Michigan - Winter has (un)officially started, with more than fifty percent of the nation feeling the effects of the frigid weather, while having to unfortunately cope with snow-covered roadways and roofs. It's one of the coldest winters in the last decade, and it's certainly taking its' toll. So, why not get prepared now? Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to make sure you're as prepared as you can be this winter. The damage - the wear and tear that the winter weather can have on your roof - can be disastrous if you're not careful.

INSPECT YOUR ROOF - Ann Arbor Roofing Services

As a precaution, you should probably be inspecting your roof somewhat regularly for leaks, shingle problems, caulking issues, gutter fixes, and more. But, likewise, chances are, you're probably not already doing this. So, before you call a pro, pull out a ladder and do some inspecting. Checking for small cracks, paneling problems, and other smaller issues can save you big bucks in the future. If you ever see a problem with your roof that you can't handle on your own, call a pro.

WATERPROOF YOUR ROOF

This ties in with the inspecting of your roof which we talked about above. If you notice things like cracks in your caulking, try and fix these issues as quickly as possible. Again, not knowing what to do or where to go simply means that calling a pro might be a better way to resolve these issues.

CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS

One of the reasons leaks and water backup can happen is for the lack of attendance to your gutter. The build-up of leaves and other debris can mean your gutter isn't working as it should be. In the winter, ice can build up in your gutter, then melt, then build back up, causing your gutter to crack or improperly drain the excess water which can end up being a really expensive fix in the end.

FIX YOUR CAULKING

Not everyone understands that the caulking on your roof is something that should be inspected along with all the other checks you perform while up on your roof. A lot of the caulking on your roof can seem hidden, and therefore it can be difficult to detect any issues with it. Rest assured: this is one of the easiest fixes if any issues are found. Simply buying some more caulk and sealing any cracks or penetrations can save you a lot of time and money down the line.

INSPECT YOUR FLASHINGS

Flashing is simply the material - usually some sort of aluminum or steel - which is used on your roof to prevent water from leaking through it and causing further damage. A rusty or corroded flashing can be a bad, bad thing, which can cause unwanted leakage and seepage throughout your roof and home. Unfortunately, a rusted, corroded or faulty flashing is probably something a professional will need to handle as it is detrimental to the infrastructure of your roof and its ability to protect you from the various elements such as snow and sleet.

Whether you're preparing for your family and friends to join you during the winter season, or you'll be traveling for the holidays, making sure you're prepared and ready for the winter weather that lies ahead can mean saving you lots of time and money in the future.