Essential Roofing and Siding Maintenance Tips for Pennsylvania Winters

It’s true. Colder weather is just around the corner. And if you’ve lived through even one Pennsylvania winter, you know that Mother Nature can be a little fickle. 

Freezing rain one day, heavy snow the next, and the occasional warm-up that leaves everything a slushy mess, is an inevitable part of life here in our beloved state. But that doesn’t mean expensive home repairs at the hands of winter weather need to be. 

In fact, a little bit of TLC can save you loads of stress (not to mention plenty of cash on unnecessary repair bills). With that in mind, here’s what every homeowner should know about giving their roof and siding the best chances this coming winter.

Because with just a few simple preventatives in place, you can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with the peace of mind knowing your home’s exterior is protecting you and everyone inside.

How Can Winter Weather Damage Your Roof?

Winter weather can be tough on roofing systems. 

When snow piles melt and refreeze, the expanding and contracting water puts strain on shingles and flashing. This can result in leaks, cracks, and shingles pulling away from the roof—especially if your roof is already showing signs of wear.

Because of this, preventative check-ups are an important measure to take each fall. By finding potential issues while they are still small, you can prevent major wear and tear that’s often exacerbated by winter storms. 

“Even a simple walk around your house and taking a look at your roof is a great first step. Most roofs are rated for 30 years, but that doesn’t mean problems can’t happen sooner.” - Matt Donaldson, E&E Sales

In other words, home vulnerabilities only ever get worse—so check for any of the following signs before winter blows in.

What Are Signs I May Need Roof Repair Services Before Winter Hits?

A quick inspection of your home’s exterior is all it takes to spot potential issues.

That said, here are some early warning signs for both your roof and vinyl siding. If you’re unsure of how your exterior stands, you may want to call a trusted roof and siding contractor for a quick look. Many providers will offer a quick inspection free of charge.

Signs your roof needs some attention include:

• Missing or curling shingles
• Sagging gutters pulling away from the house
• Stains on ceilings or walls inside your home
• “Bald” shingles with worn-off granules (also check downspouts for loose granules)
• Your shingle roof is over 20 years old

Signs of siding damage:

• Loose, missing, or warped panels
• Cracks, bulging, or bubbling
• “Soft spots” you can press in with your hand (very serious—often points to rot)
• Mold and mildew on the shady side of the house

If you notice any of these tell-tale signs, don’t wait. Schedule a professional inspection and get a free roofing or siding estimate before the cold sets in. A quick fix now can save you a lot of stress and money down the line.

What Is An Ice Dam and How Can It Hurt My Roof?

Ice dams are created when heat from your attic melts snow on the roof, and then the run-off refreezes at the eaves. This frozen “dam” traps water behind it, which tends to end up seeping under the shingles.

Left unchecked, ice dams often result in leaks, meaning interior water damage from stains and peeling paint on ceilings, ruined insulation, and even warped framing. 

The best prevention against ice dams is a quality roofing installation. When done right, a roof’s underlayment, flashing, and ventilation systems prevent warm air from melting snow unevenly, lessening the risk of ice dams in the first place.

If you do notice a buildup of ice on your roof, get an inspection immediately. Often, a skilled roofer can come in and improve your attic's ventilation, helping to keep the roof cooler during hard freezes.

How Can I Help Prevent Damage to My Roof This Winter?

Here are a few easy steps you can take to give your roof the best shot at a problem-free winter:

• Clean the Gutters: Clogged gutters allow run-off to back up and refreeze—creating ice dams that force water up under your shingles
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Snow and ice weigh down branches, and one snap could mean a large branch going through your roof
• Check Attic Insulation and Ventilation: A balanced attic keeps your roof cool enough to prevent uneven melting and ice dams

These yearly chores are DIY-friendly. However, if you’re incapable of performing them yourself, a local contractor should be able to get your roof up to snuff in no time.

How Does Freezing Weather Affect Vinyl Siding?

While your roof takes the most severe abuse during the winter, siding doesn’t get off scot-free—especially if your home is sheathed in vinyl panels.

Temperature swings cause vinyl to expand and contract, making panels brittle and susceptible to cracks. Additionally, freezing rains and heavy winds can remove panels of force moisture behind them. From there, you have two potential issues.

Freezing temperatures can cause the moisture to expand, pulling siding away from the home (increasing the risk of water issues), or when the weather warms up, you can be left with a perfect breeding ground for mold, rot, or insulation damage.

Therefore, if you have vinyl siding on your home, it’s wise to search for reputable vinyl siding repair services in your area. Oftentimes, you can get a complimentary estimate and onsite check before the seasons shift… and who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself interested in the incredible facelift of a full siding remodel.

Protect Your Home—and Your Wallet—This Winter

As much as we love PA, the truth is our winters aren’t kind to homes. But with the right prep, you can eliminate the most common vulnerabilities and enjoy all the season has to offer.

Specifically:

• Watching for early warning signs (peeling or missing shingles, sagging gutters, granule runoff, warped or cracked siding) and handling small fixes before they grow into major issues

And…

• Winterizing your home by trimming back tree branches, cleaning your gutters, and checking attic insulation for an even temperature throughout your roof

These simple steps are DIY and can save you a lot of hassle this winter. However, if after a quick look you’re unsure of where your roof and siding stand, it’s always wise to consult a professional. 

Because there’s no sense in letting winter have its way with your home. Instead, reach out to discuss your options with the E&E team today. We’ll get you and your home ready for a winter you can actually look forward to.

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E&E General Contracting has been a trusted provider of roof replacements, repairs, and all types of siding replacement services for over thirty years. Your project comes backed by a lifetime workmanship warranty and the assurance that comes with highly skilled, communicative, and caring crews. Reach out for a complimentary estimate on your exterior repairs and remodeling today—because you deserve a home to be proud of… no matter what the weather dishes out.

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