With the arrival of warmer weather, spring cleaning and yard work are top priorities for many homeowners. It’s important to remember your roof when you’re cleaning up after the long winter months. Snow, ice, wind, and rain can wreak havoc on your roof, so spring roof maintenance is essential.Â
Regular maintenance can increase your roof’s lifespan and delay the need for costly repairs or replacements. While you can likely perform some tasks on your own, roof maintenance poses many safety hazards. If you are not comfortable climbing ladders or working at heights, hiring a professional is best to ensure your safety.
Follow These Tips to Keep Your Roof in Top Condition:
1. Clean Your Gutters
Clean gutters and downspouts are essential for proper water drainage and overall roof health. Blockages in gutters or downspouts can lead to overflows and even structural damage. Remove leaves, twigs, pods, seeds, pine needles, and other debris. Also, make sure that your gutters and downspouts are in good condition and securely fastened to your home.
2. Inspect for Damaged or Missing Shingles
Many problems can be spotted safely from ground level using a pair of binoculars—one of the most important things to look for is missing or damaged shingles. If you notice any cracked, buckling, or missing shingles, it’s essential to have them repaired as soon as possible.
3. Check Flashing Around Chimneys, Vents, and Skylights
Roof leaks often begin around chimneys, vents, or skylights with damaged or missing flashing.
If you notice cracks or gaps, have them repaired as quickly as possible. Your chimney cap should be in good condition and securely fastened to keep pests and debris out.Â
4. Clean Off Moss, Mold, and Algae
Depending on the location of your home, your roof may be prone to moss, mold, or algae growth. Given enough time and moisture, mold has the potential to cause severe roof damage. Keeping leaves and other tree debris cleared off your roof helps prevent moisture problems.
Products designed to clean roofs are readily available at most home supply stores. You can also have your roof professionally cleaned.Â
5. Inspect Your Attic
Scanning your attic is a task that you may be able to do on your own. Using a flashlight, inspect the underside of your roof deck and rafters for any signs of moisture, water damage or stains, black marks, mold, or pests. Finding any signs of mold and mildew in the attic is an indication of a roof leak, and it’s time to call a professional for a comprehensive inspection and repairs.
6. Trim Your Trees
Tree limbs can scratch at your shingles, shortening their lifespan. During storms, large overhanging branches can break off and cause significant structural damage. Trimming back trees will help reduce moss growth by allowing sunlight to dry out your roof. Regular tree trimming will also make gutter cleaning more manageable.Â
7. Check Your Attic Insulation
Proper insulation and ventilation in your attic help keep your roof in good condition by preventing ice dams from forming and reducing moisture. Attic insulation combined with sufficient air circulation helps protect your home’s structure, lowers energy bills, and even helps improve air quality.Â
8. Read Your Insurance Policy
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover roof repairs and replacement if the damage results from an act of nature or a sudden accidental event. However, some insurance policies will not replace or repair a roof that has gradually deteriorated due to normal wear and tear or neglect. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your roof, but at some point, every roof will need a replacement, so understanding your insurance policy is essential.
9. Schedule a Professional Inspection
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends homeowners do a self-check at least twice a year in addition to a professional roofing inspection. For your peace of mind and to avoid more expensive repairs in the future, hiring an experienced roofer to perform an inspection and perform any needed repairs is a good idea.Â
Work With a Trusted Local Roofing Company
Since 1999, Brian Dawson Roofing has installed residential and commercial roofing systems throughout the greater St. Louis region. Because all of our work is done under warranty and fully insured, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new roof is dependable and long-lasting.Â
Contact us online or at (636) 733-6435 to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Our experienced professionals will arrive on time, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to detect leaks and other problems your roof may be facing. Our mission is to provide quality roofing services and top-notch customer service, all at a competitive price.