Thanksgiving in Missouri brings colder temperatures, heavy rain, wind, and the start of winter weather patterns. Before guests arrive and holiday plans kick into full swing, it is important to make sure your roof is ready for the season. A little preparation and roof maintenance tips can help you prevent leaks, drafts, and unexpected repairs later.
Start With a Professional Roof Inspection
Before hanging lights or decorating the yard, schedule a roof inspection to catch problems early. Small issues like lifted shingles or damaged flashing can turn into bigger problems once cold weather arrives.
A trained expert can spot conditions that the average homeowner may not notice.
The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety recommends seasonal roof inspections to prevent weather related damage.
https://ibhs.org
Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves, twigs, and fall debris collect quickly in Missouri gutters. When gutters clog, water spills over the edges and can seep into the roof deck or siding. This can lead to wood rot and interior leaks during holiday weather.
If you need gutter work done along with your inspection, visit our Roof and Gutter Services page for more details.
The Department of Energy notes that proper drainage helps protect home insulation and prevents moisture problems.
https://www.energy.gov
Check Attic Insulation Before the First Freeze
Cold air often enters through the attic first. If insulation is thin or uneven, your home may lose heat quickly, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime.
Signs your attic needs attention:
• Snow melts quickly on parts of the roof
• Cold drafts in upstairs rooms
• Rising energy bills
Visit our Roof Replacement page to learn how insulation and roofing systems work together to protect your home.
External Source:
Energy Star outlines recommended insulation levels for Midwest climates.
https://www.energystar.gov
Look for Missing or Damaged Shingles
Thanksgiving weather in Missouri can bring sudden wind gusts and freezing rain. Missing shingles, cracked shingles, or curling edges allow moisture to sneak under the roofing system.
Moisture beneath shingles can lead to:
• Mold
• Rot
• Ice dam formation
• Interior leaks
If you spot damage, check out our Roof Repair page for fast help before the holidays.
Clean Leaves and Debris Off the Roof
A roof covered in leaves holds more moisture, which increases the chance of rot and shingle breakdown. Leaves can also block water flow and cause slow draining across the roof.
If you cannot safely clear your roof, schedule maintenance with a professional before guests arrive for Thanksgiving.
Learn more about preventive maintenance on our Roof Replacement and Roof Repair pages.
Seal and Check Flashing Around Vents and Chimneys
Flashing is one of the most common sources of leaks during cold weather. If flashing is loose or worn, winter rain can easily enter the home.
Before Thanksgiving, check areas around:
• Chimneys
• Skylights
• Vent pipes
• Roof edges
If you suspect flashing issues, visit our Roofing Services page to schedule repair.
Prepare for Ice and Snow in Late November (Missouri and Illinois Focused)
Even though Thanksgiving snow is not guaranteed, both Missouri and Illinois often see their first freeze in late November. Rapid temperature swings in the Midwest can create ideal conditions for ice buildup, especially on older roofs.
Ice dams happen when warm air escapes from the attic, melts the snow, and then refreezes at the roof edge. When this occurs, water backs up under the shingles and can leak into the home.
How to prevent ice dams in Missouri and Illinois
• Improve attic insulation
• Ensure your attic ventilation is clear and functioning
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean
• Remove heavy leaf buildup from the roof
• Schedule a winter prep inspection if your roof is older
External Source:
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency provides guidance on winter home preparation and ice dam prevention.
https://iema.illinois.gov
Check Exterior Siding and Trim While You Are At It
Holiday weather can expose siding problems just as easily as roofing problems. Cracks or gaps around siding can allow moisture and cold air inside. This can also impact roof ventilation.
Visit our Siding Services page for repair or replacement options in Lake St. Louis, St. Charles, Wentzville, and O’Fallon.
Be Careful When Hanging Holiday Lights
Avoid nailing or screwing holiday lights directly into shingles or soffits. This can cause punctures that lead to leaks.
Use clips designed for roofs and gutters instead.
If you accidentally damage a shingle or gutter, head to our Roof Repair page for quick help.
External Source:
Consumer Product Safety Commission offers tips on safe holiday decoration.
https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education
Schedule Repairs Before Winter Fully Arrives
Holiday season is busy, and roofing companies book quickly. If you find any issues during a pre Thanksgiving check, schedule repairs right away.
Brody Allen Exteriors provides inspections and roofing services throughout Lake St. Louis, St. Charles, Wentzville, O Fallon, and surrounding Missouri communities.
Schedule your Thanksgiving season roof inspection on our Contact Page to protect your home before winter hits.
