Cleaning and yardwork are frequently at the top of your to-do list in the spring. Your roof is one of the most crucial locations for outside upkeep in your home, but it’s also one of the most overlooked. Your roof may sustain minor to significant damage during the winter. Check your roof for any signs of damage or needed repairs before the winter and spring months arrive. Cleaning gutters, trimming trees, and having an inspection completed can all help you prepare for the spring and the rest of the year.
Make sure to give your roof the TLC it needs as it recovers from winter snow and ice and prepares for spring thunder and wind.
Here are some roof maintenance tips for spring:
Clean Your Gutters
Cleaning your gutters is an important part of spring cleaning. Dirt, leaves, pine cones, and other debris in your gutter can block water from reaching the drains, causing a problem. Water might pool on your roof due to clogged gutters. Water can then leak beneath your shingles and into your attic, causing damage to your home. As a result, clean your gutters thoroughly to ensure that water, melting snow, and ice can drain correctly during the winter, reducing the chance of ice dams.
Clean out your gutters thoroughly with a specific gutter scoop to avoid damaging them in the process. Spread a sheet on the lawn below to catch the falling debris.
Your Trees Should Be Trimmed and Pruned
One of the most serious threats to your roof is overhanging tree branches. Trees drop some of their branches in addition to their leaves, and if these branches fall on your roof, they can cause substantial damage or punctures, as well as wet and shadowed areas that foster mold or algae growth. Trim your trees away from your house to avoid such harm. Also, double-check that your trees’ branches aren’t touching your roof.
Inspect the Insulation in your attic
Insulate and ventilate your attic properly to keep your roof in good working order, avoid ice dams, and reduce dampness. In order to keep the inside of your roof free of moisture, you’ll need sufficient ventilation and a comfortable temperature in your attic. Keep an eye out for matted insulation and spots that appear to be moist or have previously been wet. Make sure there are no leaks in the insulation just below exhaust ports, ventilation pipes, and chimneys.
Check for mold or algae.
Because moisture can build on your roof throughout the winter, mold or algae growth is rather usual. Keep an eye out for these critters while inspecting your shingles. There are several DIY mold eradication methods for your roof, but consult a professional roofer before pouring any chemicals up there.
Repair your roof.
Check for any missing, curling, or worn-down shingles. You can undertake a partial visual check from the ground if you aren’t comfortable stepping up on your roof. If you’re confident in your ability to inspect your roof, make sure to utilize a solid ladder and bring a friend for safety.
Any shingles with cracks, curled edges, or loose nails should be avoided. It may be time for a roof repair or replacement this spring if you detect extensive sections of broken shingles. If you or your roofing contractor notices any broken, missing, worn-out, or damaged shingles, make repairs right away. Snow and ice buildup can harm your roof shingles, producing leaks, if you wait too long to make roof repairs. This damage, as well as the additional maintenance costs, can be avoided if roof repairs are completed as soon as possible after any damage is discovered.
Get a professional roof inspection
Many homeowners wait until they notice evident indicators of deterioration or a significant repair necessity before scheduling a roof inspection. Because roofs are so high that you can’t see all of the nooks and crannies, the issue may not be obvious from the ground. The best approach to detect any signs of damage or repairs before they have an influence on the state of your roof is to schedule an inspection with a professional roofing contractor. In addition, homeowners should keep an eye out for any signs of water damage on their roofs. If a leak or water damage is discovered, it should be repaired right away to avoid further damage. Assessing and checking your roof for damage or moisture will help it stay in good shape for years to come.
Follow these roof care tips to keep your roof safe during the winter and prepare for the spring season. Contact Big League Roofers today to schedule a professional roof inspection.