As we move into the colder months, winter is no longer on the horizon—it’s at our doorstep. For homeowners in Southern Illinois, now is the time to ensure your roof and gutters are ready for what the season has in store. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on even the best-maintained homes, and preparation is key to making it through winter unscathed.
You may be thinking, “Isn’t it too late to prepare now?” The truth is, it’s never too late to protect your home. In fact, the earlier you act, the better off you’ll be. Winter can bring a variety of challenges, but with the right precautions, you can avoid costly damage and ensure your home stays safe and sound throughout the season.
Yes, We Can Install Shingles in Winter
Contrary to what many homeowners think, we can still install shingles in colder temperatures. As long as the temperature hovers around the 40-degree mark, shingle installation remains effective. Certain shingles, like the Landmark series, are designed to be flexible and durable even in cooler climates. However, in cold weather, shingles may take a little longer to seal properly. That’s why at Back to Normal Construction, we ensure hand sealing when necessary, ensuring your roof is fully protected for winter. So if you’ve been putting off a roof replacement, now is the time to act before harsher weather sets in.
The Role of Your Gutters
Many homeowners overlook the importance of their gutters during winter, focusing solely on their roof. But your gutters play a critical role in diverting water away from your home, especially when snow begins to melt. If your gutters are clogged with leaves or debris from the fall, water can back up, freeze, and cause all sorts of issues—ice dams, leaks, and even roof damage.
By clearing your gutters and downspouts before the temperatures drop too low, you’re giving your home a fighting chance against winter’s worst. And if you’re tired of constant gutter maintenance, now’s the perfect time to consider investing in ShurFlo or UltraFlo gutter guards. These high-quality guards prevent clogs, allowing water to flow freely and reducing the risk of ice buildup.
Protecting Against Ice Dams: Why Ice and Water Shield is a Must
Ice dams are one of the most dangerous wintertime roofing problems, and they can form before you even realize there’s an issue. When warm air from your home rises and melts the snow on your roof, the water runs down to the colder edges, refreezing and creating a dam. This blocks additional melting snow from draining properly, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home.
The best defense against ice dams is proper preparation—and this is where ice and water shield comes in. At Back to Normal Construction, we install WinterGuard or GRACE Select Waterproofing Underlayment on vulnerable areas of your roof, such as valleys, eaves, and around chimneys. This layer of protection is specifically designed to prevent water from seeping under your shingles and causing damage. It’s an investment that pays for itself by stopping leaks before they start. With ice and water shield in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof is fortified against ice dam formation, no matter how harsh the winter gets.
Don’t Let Small Issues Become Big Problems
Many homeowners put off dealing with minor roofing issues during the winter, thinking they can wait until spring. But small problems—like a missing shingle or a minor leak—can escalate quickly when exposed to snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures. What could have been a simple repair in the fall can become a major roofing project by the time winter is over.
At Back to Normal Construction, we know how unpredictable winter weather can be, and we’re here to help. Our team is available to inspect your roof and address any concerns before they turn into bigger headaches. Whether you need a minor repair or an emergency fix, we’ll get it done efficiently and with the quality you’ve come to expect from us.
Act Now, Before Winter Hits Full Force
With the holidays fast approaching, many homeowners find themselves focused on family, travel, and celebrations—but your home’s protection shouldn’t take a backseat. Addressing your roof and gutter needs now ensures you can enjoy the winter season without worrying about unexpected repairs.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof or gutters, don’t wait. Contact Back to Normal Construction for a complimentary inspection, and we’ll give you an honest assessment of your home’s winter readiness. Let’s face the season together, and make sure your home is prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at us.