1. Keep gutters/gutter guards clear. Make sure your gutters, downspouts,
drains, gutter guards are clear of leaves and other debris before storm
season begins. Blocked gutters can cause water to back up and freeze,
potentially damaging the roof. Have professionals clear your gutters after
most of the leaves have fallen from the trees, or consider installing
gutter screens that will prevent blockage.

2. Trim overhanging tree branches. Storms that are accompanied by gusting
winds or cause heavy snow or ice to coat trees can result in fallen
branches that can damage your home. Before the season starts, trim any low
or overhanging branches that look as if they’d be at risk of falling on
your house (or cars and power lines). Always be sure to check with local
ordinances first to ensure you’re allowed to remove branches from trees
near your property.

3. Prevent ice dams. Ice dams form when the heat inside your home causes
ice or snow in the middle of your roof to melt and run down to the edges.
When the water refreezes there, it creates a blockage that can cause roof
leaks, which can damage interior ceilings and walls. To prevent ice dams,
keep your attic cool — ideally not more than 5 to 10 degrees warmer than
the outside temperature. Good insulation on the attic floor can prevent
heat from escaping the house as it rises. Other good preventive steps
include sealing vent pipes, exhaust fans, and light fixtures that may
transport warm air upward.

4. Remove heavy ice and snow. Most roofs are designed to withstand
“normal” amounts of ice and snow in the area where they stand. For
instance, roofs in the northern part of the country tend to be sturdier and
more steeply sloped, so that less snow or ice accumulates. Most
sturdy roofs should be able to support about 20 pounds per square foot of
snow before they become stressed. If the amount of snow or ice on the roof
becomes worrisome, homeowners can purchase special roof rakes with long
handles to remove snow on the roof from the ground. If you’re unable to do
this from the ground, it’s a smart idea to hire a professional and avoid
the dangers of both climbing onto an icy roof and damaging roof structures.

5. Don’t use a pressure washer. A pressure washer will loosen the
granules embedded in the asphalt shingles and expose the asphalt to UV rays
which will shorten its lifespan. Only professionals should use a pressure
washer to clean the roof.