North OKGN Construction’s Winter Roof Maintenance Checklist(Because Even Santa Checks His List Twice)

North OKGN Construction’s Winter Roof Maintenance Checklist

(Because Even Santa Checks His List Twice)

Winter in the North Okanagan is beautiful…until your roof decides to join the naughty list.

With Vernon’s wet snow, freeze–thaw cycles, valley winds, and heavy overnight accumulations, winter roof maintenance isn’t optional. It’s the difference between a happy home and a surprise waterfall in your living room. The good news? A little prep before the snow flies (and some smart upkeep through the colder months) can go a long way in protecting your roof, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

This checklist breaks down what homeowners can safely do, what’s better left to the pros, and why staying ahead of maintenance isn’t just smart; it’s essential to keeping your roof warranty valid and your home protected.

1. Start With a Pre-Winter Roof Inspection

(Before the snow flies Santa would approve.)

The most important step in winter roof maintenance is to get ahead of the season. Once Vernon’s snow arrives, small problems can become big, icy, expensive problems.

Your pre-winter inspection should include:

• Checking for missing, loose, or damaged shingles
• Inspecting flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
• Making sure gutters and downspouts are clear and draining properly
• Looking for early signs of moisture issues inside the attic
• Ensuring your attic insulation and ventilation are up to par

This is one of those areas where DIY is possible, but not always recommended, especially if your roof is steep, slick, or high. If you’re unsure, call a roofing professional and hey, we happen to know a good one ;) 

2. Light DIY Roof Maintenance You Can Safely Do

(Only if you're comfortable and conditions are safe.)

There are only a few winter roof tasks we feel good about homeowners doing themselves. Safety always comes first — if the roof is wet, icy, steep, or higher than you'd like to be…don’t go up.

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Here are the truly homeowner-friendly items:‍

Clear Debris

If you can safely reach, clear branches, pine needles, toys, and anything else that doesn’t belong on the roof. Vernon’s fall winds often leave a mess behind that traps moisture and accelerates shingle wear.

Simple Gutter Cleaning

If you’re comfortable on a ladder and conditions are dry:

• Scoop out leaves and needles
• Run water through your downspouts to check flow
• Make sure downspouts extend away from your foundation

Blocked gutters lead to ice dams which are one of the most common winter roofing issues in the Okanagan.

Quick Visual Shingle Check

From the ground or with binoculars, look for:

• Curling edges
• Missing granules
• Lifting tabs
• Obvious bare spots

If something looks off, call a pro before snow covers the issue.

3. Professional Tasks You Shouldn’t DIY

(We promise—we’re not upselling; just keeping you safe and supported.)

Some roof repairs and maintenance tasks are best handled by trained professionals. Not because homeowners aren’t capable, but because winter conditions add risk and require specialized tools, materials, and techniques.

Call a professional for:

• Replacing missing or damaged shingles
• Repairing flashing around chimneys or vents
• Fixing leaks
• Addressing attic ventilation or moisture concerns
• Clearing heavy snow loads
• Preventing or removing ice dams
• Cleaning moss from shingles without damaging protective granules
• Any work requiring a full walk on the roof in winter

Another important note: many roofing warranties outline what homeowners can and cannot repair themselves. DIY work (even well-intentioned repairs) can void warranty coverage if it causes damage, uses the wrong products, or alters the roof system. When in doubt, it’s always safer (and more cost-effective) to let a certified roofing professional handle anything beyond basic visual checks and light maintenance.

Winter roofing issues escalate quickly and prompt, professional repairs protect both your home and your warranty.

4. About Cleaning Shingles (Please Read This Before Grabbing a Brush)

The roof of your Vernon home isn’t the place for pressure washers, wire brushes, or aggressive scrubbing. These methods remove granules (the part of the shingle that protects against UV, water, and premature aging.)

If you notice moss or algae:

• Avoid scrubbing
• Do not use bleach mixtures (this voids many roofing warranties)
• Call a professional for safe cleaning methods

A roof can be cleaned, but it must be done with the right products, pressure, and technique.

5. Replacing Missing or Damaged Shingles

(A winter priority you shouldn’t delay.)

Loose, cracked, or missing shingles are one of the biggest culprits behind winter leaks. Cold weather, wind gusts, and freeze–thaw cycles put extra stress on already compromised areas.

You should call a professional when you see:

• Exposed underlayment
• Shingles blown off in storms
• Cracked or broken tabs
• Lifting shingles that don’t lay flat

Even a single missing shingle can create water pathways and winter moisture finds them fast.

6. Staying Ahead of the Game

(The North Okanagan Way)

Winter roof maintenance isn’t a one-and-done situation. Vernon’s climate means paying attention throughout the season.

Your ongoing winter checklist:

• After windstorms: check for loose shingles or debris
• After heavy snowfalls: keep an eye on snow load (avoid climbing up — just observe)
• After freeze-thaw cycles: watch for ice dam formation
• In the attic: check for frost, damp insulation, or musty smells
• Around the home: ensure downspouts drain away from the foundation

Being proactive protects your roof, your home, your warranty…and your sanity.

7. Maintaining Your Roofing Warranty With Proper Upkeep

Most roofing warranties require:

• Routine inspections
• Timely repairs
• No unauthorized cleaning products
• Proper ventilation and insulation

Skipping maintenance or delaying repairs can put your warranty at risk especially in winter when issues accelerate.

Think of your roofing warranty like Santa’s list:
Take care of your roof, and it stays on the “nice” list.
Ignore it…and well, you know how that goes.

Final Thoughts

Winter roof maintenance doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Small, safe steps plus knowing when to call professionals, go a long way in protecting your home through Vernon’s coldest months.

At North OKGN Construction, we approach every inspection and repair with honesty, experience, and clear communication. If we make a recommendation, it’s because it’s truly what your roof needs, never an upsell, and always a professional opinion you can trust.

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