Prepare Your Roof Before Winter:

As summer comes to a close, Vermont homeowners have a valuable opportunity to prepare their roofs before snow, ice, and freezing temperatures arrive. A simple inspection in late summer or early fall can identify minor issues before they develop into expensive repairs during the winter months. Whether your roof is five years old or twenty-five, preventative maintenance can extend its lifespan and protect your home.

Here are four key areas every Burlington-area homeowner should check before fall.

1. Look for Wind Damage

Strong summer storms and seasonal winds can loosen or remove roofing shingles without homeowners even noticing.

Walk around your home and look for:

• Missing shingles
• Lifted or curling shingles
• Exposed nail heads
• Shingles lying in your yard

Even one missing shingle creates an opening where water can begin penetrating the roofing system.

2. Have Flashing Around Roof Penetrations Inspected

Flashing seals vulnerable areas around chimneys, skylights, plumbing vents, and roof valleys.

Over time, flashing can loosen, rust, crack, or separate from the roof surface.

Signs of flashing problems include:

• Rust stains
• Gaps around metal flashing
• Loose sealant
• Interior water stains near chimneys or skylights

Addressing flashing issues early can prevent costly leaks once snow and ice begin accumulating.

3. Have Gutters Cleaned and Drainage Checked

Clogged gutters prevent water from draining properly and can contribute to ice dam formation during Vermont winters.

Before leaves begin falling, make sure:

• Gutters are free of debris
• Downspouts direct water away from the foundation
• Gutters remain securely attached
• Water flows freely during rainfall

Proper drainage reduces unnecessary stress on both your roof and your home's foundation.

4. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Some roofing issues simply aren't visible from the ground.

Professional roofing inspections can identify:

• Soft decking
• Hidden moisture intrusion
• Aging sealants
• Small leaks
• Ventilation problems
• Early signs of roof deterioration

Finding these issues before winter often results in significantly less expensive repairs.

Why Fall Is the Best Time

Once Vermont's snow and freezing temperatures arrive, repairs become more difficult—and in some cases, temporary until spring. Scheduling an inspection during early fall allows contractors to complete repairs under ideal weather conditions while helping homeowners avoid emergency situations later in the season.

Protect Your Home Before Winter

Your roof works hard all year long, but Vermont winters demand even more. Taking the time to perform a seasonal inspection—or having a professional evaluate your roof—can save thousands of dollars in preventable repairs.

If you're in Burlington or anywhere throughout Vermont, Rodd Roofing can help ensure your roof is ready for the seasons ahead. Our experienced team provides thorough inspections, honest recommendations, and dependable roofing solutions designed to withstand New England weather.

Schedule your roof inspection today and head into winter with confidence.