Winter Roof Maintenance Tips: My First Winter as a Homeowner

 

Okay, so here’s the thing about buying a 20-year-old house: it’s kind of like adopting a very temperamental pet. One minute it’s charming you with its “character,” and the next, you’re Googling “is my roof about to collapse or just being dramatic?” Spoiler alert: roofs don’t have moods, but they do have a lot of ways to ruin your winter if you’re not paying attention. Ask me how I know.

Last winter was my first in my “new” (read: old) house here in Olympia, and let me tell you, my roof and I went through a lot together. Snow, rain, random pine needles from the trees that apparently can’t mind their own business—it was a whole thing. But hey, I made it through, and I learned some very real lessons along the way. Now I’m basically a self-proclaimed winter roof maintenance expert. Or at least, I know enough to keep you from ending up where I did: in a full-on panic every time the wind picked up. So, here’s what I wish someone had told me before the snow started falling.

Ice Dams Are Not a Cool Ice Cream Shop

Before last winter, I thought “ice dams” sounded kind of whimsical, like something you’d see in a Christmas village. Spoiler: they’re not cute. They’re basically what happens when heat from your house melts the snow on your roof, which then refreezes at the edges. The result? Trapped water with nowhere to go. Think of it like your roof’s version of a mid-life crisis, only instead of buying a motorcycle, it just leaks into your living room.

What I learned: Your attic insulation is your first line of defense here. If warm air is escaping from your house, you’re basically setting the stage for an ice dam drama. After some (slightly frantic) research, I found out that proper insulation and ventilation can make a huge difference. This winter, I’ve got Equity Roofing and Exteriors, LLC on speed dial. Their free consultations are a lifesaver, and they’re pros at helping with energy-efficient solutions that keep your roof—and your heating bill—in check. (Check them out here or on Google. You’re welcome.)

Debris Is Not Your Friend

If you’re anything like me, your gutters are probably the last thing you think about—until they turn into a cascading waterfall every time it rains. Pine needles, leaves, and other random debris were basically having a party up there, and my roof paid the price. All that junk can trap moisture, weigh down your gutters, and, in extreme cases, even cause them to pull away from the house. Yikes.

Here’s the deal: you’ve got to clean your gutters before winter hits. Yes, it’s gross. Yes, you might find something terrifying in there (is that a bird’s nest or…?). But trust me, it’s worth it. Or better yet, call the pros at Equity Roofing to handle it. They’ll make sure your gutters are ready to handle whatever winter throws at them.

Leaks Are Sneaky, and They’re Not Just a Summer Problem

So, funny story: I thought roof leaks were only a thing during heavy spring rains. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a suspicious wet spot on my ceiling in January. Turns out, leaks don’t take a holiday, and winter is prime time for sneaky roof issues to make themselves known.

Here’s the thing: even a tiny crack can let in water, which then freezes and expands. Over time, that small problem can turn into a major one. The solution? Regular inspections. I now schedule one every fall to catch potential issues before they escalate. Equity Roofing offers these, and their team is super thorough. Bonus: they also explain what they’re doing in non-roofer terms, so you don’t feel like an idiot nodding along.

The Weight of Snow Is Not a Joke

Listen, I know we don’t get blizzards here in Olympia, but even a few inches of snow can add up. A heavy, wet snowfall can put serious pressure on your roof, especially if it’s older (like mine). I learned the hard way that letting snow sit for too long is basically asking for trouble.

Now, I keep a roof rake in my garage for those rare snow days. If you’ve never seen one, it’s basically a long pole with a scraper on the end, and it’s surprisingly satisfying to use. Just make sure you’re careful—you don’t want to accidentally damage your shingles in the process. If that sounds like a nightmare, guess who can help? Yep, Equity Roofing. They can handle snow removal safely and efficiently.

Proactive Maintenance = Peace of Mind

I get it: roof maintenance isn’t exactly glamorous. It’s not like you can show off a well-maintained roof on Instagram (though, hey, maybe you should). But trust me, a little effort now will save you so much stress later.

This winter, I’m feeling prepared. My gutters are clean, my attic is insulated, and I’ve got Equity Roofing on speed dial for anything I can’t handle myself. If you’re in Olympia or the surrounding areas, seriously, give them a call or check out their website for more info. They’re the real deal.

Take it from someone who learned the hard way: a little winter roof maintenance goes a long way. And if you ever find yourself Googling “is my roof about to collapse,” just know—you’re not alone. Now, go prep your roof and enjoy the cozy season without the stress. (And maybe treat yourself to a hot cocoa afterward. You earned it.)