The snow is melting. For what seems like the first time in forever, you can finally see your roof—along with all the damage it sustained over the long, hard winter. The snow and freezing temperatures of winter can take a toll on even the sturdiest roof, which makes inspecting and repairing it crucial. You may want to put this task off until later, but dealing with roof maintenance now can save you a lot of future trouble and worry. Let’s go over some ways to prepare your roof and gutters for spring so you’re ready for the spring showers on the way.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
People don’t often perform regular maintenance on their roof and gutters in winter, and for good reason. It’s dangerous to brave the cold and the slippery, icy ladders just to realize that your roof is covered in snow and you can’t see a thing. Come springtime, your gutters are clogged with debris from both fall and winter. As soon as the weather is warm, grab a ladder and start inspecting your roof for debris and damage. This includes leaves, pine needles, water clogs, cracks, holes, and other visible signs of wear and tear. Make sure to clear out any debris and seal any damage. Taking care of gutter damage will reduce the likelihood of cracks appearing in the foundation, which can lead to water leaking into your home.
Check for Roof Fatigue
Once your gutters are in good condition, turn your attention to the roof. Deal with any signs of surface decay or damage immediately. Some common signs of damage include cracks, holes, dents, and missing or loose shingles. Make sure you don’t overlook algae. Algae can weaken the shingles and make them less effective at reflecting heat. You can try and clean algae off the roof yourself by washing it, but if the buildup is extensive, consider having a professional roofing team handle the problem instead. The same goes for any roof damage. While it might be tempting to repair it yourself, a professional roof repair company can perform the inspection and repair work faster and safer.
Inspect Your Ceilings
Another way to prepare your roof and gutters for spring is to check for signs of interior damage. Check your ceilings, along with any walls located on the upper story or in your attic. Keep an eye out for any traces of mold, stains, or water marks, which may indicate that there’s a leak in your roof. If it’s leaking, have it inspected and repaired by a professional roofing company as soon as possible. Otherwise, the water infiltrating your home can cause major structural damage and encourage further mold growth.
