Winter Roof Preparation: Five Practical Checks

Use this five-part winter-preparation checklist to organize known defects, drainage, penetrations, nearby vegetation and appropriate repairs. Start with safe observations and earlier records before weather makes access harder. A checklist is not permission for roof access or a safety guarantee.⁠^[1]

#1. Inspect the Roof

Record visible covering changes from safe ground and water symptoms from safely accessible rooms. Keep dates and weather conditions with the roof history. Have unclear causes or hazardous conditions assessed rather than climbing or opening materials to complete the list.⁠^[1]

#2. Check roof-penetration details

Ask about the flashing and boots around roof penetrations, not generic replacement of plumbing pipes. A qualified assessment should identify the actual defect and the trade responsible. Flashing must integrate with surrounding drainage layers.⁠^[2]

#3. Check Tree Limbs

Record roof contact, fallen debris or hazardous-looking limbs from a safe location. An appropriate tree professional should assess clearance and difficult overhead work; tree age alone does not establish a need for removal.

#4. Clean the Gutters

Note overflow, loose components and discharge after precipitation. Arrange elevated cleaning/repair with equipped help. Open gutters do not correct heat-driven ice-dam formation, and surface growth is not a substitute for identifying an actual drainage problem.⁠^[3]

#5. Get Repairs

Ask which recorded defects need repair and how the work is carried out under appropriate access and weather conditions. A completed checklist or covering repair cannot guarantee the property is safe through every winter event.⁠^[1]