If you’ve been watching the weather reports these past weeks, you will know that some regions in the country have experienced severe winter, including Northern Virginia, while residents in other areas are just brushing the snow off. This only means that different regions come with different risks. Knowing the weather conditions in your area will help you choose among your options, especially on how to protect your home from the elements.

With the weather becoming increasingly unpredictable, you should not delay in getting ready for any eventuality. For his part, Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe urged his citizens to be always well prepared and to have all emergency supplies on hand:

The forecast for our area suggests 4 inches to 8 inches of snow, beginning late Wednesday afternoon, with a mix of sleet. Even more snow is expected in other parts of the state.

To prepare for the storm:

  • The Virginia Emergency Operations Center has additional response team members to coordinate the state’s response to the storm.
  • The Virginia Department of Transportation is treating roads in some parts of the Commonwealth, and crews will be out in full force for snow removal as the storm arrives. Roads with the highest traffic volumes are cleared first.  VDOT has adequate supplies for this storm.
Citizens should:
  • Avoid overexertion while shoveling snow and cleaning up from the storm, no matter your age or physical condition.  Shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.

Meanwhile, home building experts will tell you that the roof is one of the most important factors in the long-term condition and value of your home. High-quality roofing works in your favor because it can last longer, may incur fewer repairs and even reduce heating and cooling costs. Taking these points into account, you should build your house with materials that can withstand certain hazards like heavy snow, hail, fire and wind. Cost, durability and comfort are the concerns that

roofing contractors in Northern Virginia

would like you to care about.

However, even if you invest in any kind of new roof,it is important that you are informed about the elements that can damage it.For instance, melting snow often refreezes at a roof’s overhang, forming ice dams. Companies that offer roof repair in Northern Virginia like Roofing & More can help in this regard, so that water properly drains into the gutter.

 

(Article Excerpt and Image from Winter Storm: State of Emergency as Heavy Snow Approaches Virginia, fairfaxcity.patch.com, February 11, 2014)