While spring, summer, and fall can be pretty pleasant in Buffalo, expect severe weather season during the cold time of the year. Lake-effect snow, intense freeze-thaw cycles, and destructive ice dams come into play and can do a number on one’s roof and siding. How often to do roof maintenance is easily answered with twice a year. It’s how to protect roof and siding from the harshest time of the year that we’ll be dealing with.

Roof

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clearing the gutter system, from the waterway above to the drain that takes everything down to the ground, is the first step in making sure the roof is ready for severe weather. This removal of leaves, twigs, and other dirt avoids blockage that can cause water to back up and damage the roof.

2. Check the Shingles

Inspect the roof for loose, curled, or missing shingles, as they are entry points for rain. Have those damaged or missing roofing materials replaced while the weather is favorable. As for loose shingles, apply roof cement after cleaning it, secure with nails, and then seal the nail heads. If this problem is taken care of right away and best by a professional, one’s home will be safe and dry during the worst weather.

3. Seal Flashing and Vulnerable Areas

Ensure all the roof flashing surrounding skylights, vents, and chimneys is examined and sealed well. Cover the gaps with caulk or sealant designed for cold weather. Inspect the rubber gaskets around the plumbing vents for cracks and get them replaced if needed. Roof valleys, eaves, and edges must be watertight.

4. Trim Nearby Trees

Overhanging branches must be removed as they can damage the roof. When snow accumulates on them, the weight can snap the limbs and cause them to crash on and puncture the roof. Any branches hanging within ten feet of your roof must be trimmed for safety’s sake. It’s also imperative that a homeowner calls in a pro to do the job. Heaven knows too many tree trimmings could go wrong if DIY’d by amateurs.

Siding

1. Secure Loose Siding

Examine all siding panels of your house prior to the coming of winter or stormy weather. Be on guard against loose, cracked, or warped panels is how to maintain siding. Have those that are loose secured with screws or galvanized nails and the damaged parts replaced to prevent leaks and ensure a buffer against cold winds.

2. Seal Siding Openings

Examine the siding of one’s house closely for holes, cracks, or gaps as they are access points for melted snow or rain to wreak havoc behind the cladding. Have a layer of expanding foam filler or exterior caulk applied on the breaks to seal them. Pay attention to corners and joints as these are gateways for moisture to develop and for mold and rot to grow.

Faulty to Fortress

Although Buffalo’s winters and stormy weather are harsh, your house doesn’t have to be helpless against them. Again, twice a year is how often to do roof maintenance: in autumn for a pre-winter check and in spring for a post-winter recovery. For siding, it’s once a year with an occasional cleaning. Call the experts for your maintenance needs at Lifetime Siding, Roofing, and Construction at 716-239-6476.