Spring Cleaning Tips For Your Roof

Spring is finally around the corner! This means that it is time to bust out the spring cleaning checklists and start the projects you have planned. The first thing on your spring cleaning list should be doing a spring check up on your roof, especially after the harsh winter months. Today we’re gonna give you some things to add to that list so your roof performs to its maximum potential. 

Clean Your Gutters

The first step to spring cleaning your roof is to check and clean your gutters. Chances are your gutters are full of debris and leaves. If your gutters are clogged, they won’t be able to do their job. If the draining system isn’t working properly then your shingles, siding, and more will be vulnerable to damages. The first step is cleaning out all of the visible debris from your gutters. To do this, you want to use a sturdy ladder and a keen eye.

Once all of the visible areas have been cleaned, check your downspout. This is one of the most important parts of your gutter system. Use a hose or plumbers snake for hard to reach areas. If that doesn’t work, take the downspout apart and find the source to clean it. Once you’ve cleaned your gutters, check for any damage. Make sure nothing is sagging, there are no holes, and you’re not missing any fasteners in the gutters.

Inspect The Shingles

There are a number of things to watch out for when it comes to the shingles on your roof. They are the first line of defense for your roof. Pay special attention to them, and try to do an examination as best as you can from the ground. 

Missing Shingles

Do a visual inspection to check for any missing shingles. If you notice this, make sure to get them replaced immediately. A missing shingle can cause a weak spot in your roof and expose your infrastructure to things like mold and rot. 

Blistering Shingles

Blistered shingles occur when an excessive amount of moisture becomes trapped in a shingle. The “blistered” area is the moisture on the inside and if no action is taken, the shingle will burst and cause an array of more serious damages. Unfortunately, spotting blistered shingles can be extremely difficult, so it’s best to have a professional inspection once a year to catch any that have developed.

Buckling Shingles

A buckling shingle is a moisture problem where the underneath framing has shifted. Buckling shingles need to be addressed quickly. They have the potential to crack and tear the infrastructure of your roof. Getting them fixed quickly helps you avoid needing to replace your roof completely. 

Stained Shingles

Look for any stains or signs of streaking on your shingles. This indicates there is a leak somewhere. Contact a professional so that the source of the problem can be properly addressed. 

Curling Shingles

The last thing you should look for when inspecting your shingles is for any curling singles. Curling shingles are usually the result of improper installation or poor ventilation. Get them fixed immediately to avoid any further damage.

Clear Off Debris

When inspecting your roof, check to make sure there are no tree branches or any other kind of debris on your roof. Making sure your roof is clear of any debris is important to maintaining the integrity of the roof. 

Check For General Wear and Tear

While you are inspecting your roof, keep an eye out for any general wear and tear that occurs over time. If you see big areas of rust on the gutters, parts of your roof seem like they are sagging, or any other general wear and tear, contact a professional. Wear and tear is easy to spot. However, there is a possibility that your roof has more damage that can be seen to the naked eye. 

Look Out for Mold and Mildew

Look closely for any signs of mold or mildew on your roof. If it is caught early enough, it’s usually easy to fix. Mold and mildew can begin to seep into the foundation and cause more problems if you let it go too long. You can try at home remedies like lead control strips. If you notice it has gone too far, call a roofing professional immediately. Mold can cause health issues to you and your family, so don’t ignore it. 

Trim Branches and Vegetation

Branches and overgrown vegetation can threaten your roof greatly. Trees can be some of the biggest threats to your home. The best way to avoid any damage from your yard’s trees is to trim the branches. If you have hard to reach areas, consider calling a professional. When the branches, vegetation, and foliage are trimmed, you will also spend less time cleaning those leaves from your gutters. Taking care of this step in the spring is much easier than waiting until everything is in full bloom. 

Check the Chimney and Flashing

The flashings on your chimney or roof can easily pull away. This creates small holes in it which allows bugs and water to get in. If you know where the damage is, these are easy fixes. If you can’t find the damage or do not know what they look like, call a roofing professional. 

Check the Inside of The Roof

Check the inside of the roof for any damages. This is best done by going into your attic and taking a look. If you see any sources of light coming in from the outside of the roof, it’s likely there is a hole somewhere. Look for any water damage, mildew and mold growth. If you smell something, don’t ignore it and call a professional as soon as possible. Mold in your attic is usually due to an insulation or ventilation issue, if no roof leak has occurred. 

While it is wise to complete a roof inspection of your own, it is also wise to have a professional inspect your roof for you. A professional will make the process move quickly and you can be sure that nothing was missed during the inspection. It’s easy to miss on roofing problems if you are not trained to look for them. Give us a call today at (636) 699-0449 or send us a message so we can make sure your roof is ready for the year ahead.