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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

Spring Roof Maintenance Tips

Winter weather isn’t friendly to a roof.  This means that spring is the perfect time to inspect your roofing system and ensure everything remains in stable condition after a harsh winter.  A roof inspection can highlight damage to areas such as the gutters, flashings and shingles as well as indicate where your roof might need maintenance.

Inspect your roof for damage

Begin your spring roof maintenance by performing a visual inspection of your roof, both from the ground and, if possible, from the rooftop.  Check for cracked, loose, or missing shingles and repair or replace them as needed.  Look for any signs of water damage, such as stains, mold, or rot, in your attic or on your ceilings.  Also, pay attention to any areas where moss or algae may have started to grow, as this can cause damage to your shingles over time.

Winter can be a rough time for a roof, and your shingles often receive the hardest blow.  Snow buildup, ice dams, and excess moisture can all deteriorate your shingles over time.  Depending on the roof layout, you may be able to spot damaged shingles from the ground.

Look out for missing, curled, or stained shingles.

• Missing shingles are easy to spot from the ground.  The gaps they create allow water to enter the home, making this one of the most vital spring roofing tasks.

• Curled shingles may stem from typical wear and tear, but they could also point to improper installation or a lack of attic ventilation.

• Stained shingles or algae can indicate water buildup around the area

If you notice many missing or damaged shingles, it may be worth considering whether you need to inquire about repairs or roof replacement.

Clean your gutters and downspouts

After the winter months, your gutters and downspouts may be filled with leaves, branches, and other debris.  Clearing them out ensures proper water drainage and helps prevent damage to your roof and foundation.  Make sure to check for any signs of sagging or damage to your gutters and downspouts, as this could indicate a larger issue.

Algae and Mildew

Algae and mildew are common sights on roofs after a long winter, since moisture provides the perfect environment for both to thrive.  There are roofing shingles with algae-fighting technology that can help fight back against staining caused by blue-green algae.  Make cleaning your roof part of your regular spring roofing maintenance.  There are companies who specialize in this and suggest reaching out to a professional who provides this service.

Examine flashing and sealants

Inspect your roof’s flashing (the metal pieces that seal gaps around vents, chimneys, and skylights) for signs of rust or damage, and replace them as needed.  Also, check the sealant around these areas and reapply if necessary.  Properly sealed flashing and joints help to prevent water intrusion and damage to your home’s interior.  Flashing protects the most vulnerable areas of your roof, including the chimney, valleys, and vents.  Use binoculars to safely inspect the flashing from the ground—avoid actually getting on your roof as footsteps can also loosen the granules that provide protection.  Watch out for rust staining and cracked caulking by the roof flashing.

Trim overhanging branches

Keep tree limbs and branches trimmed away from your roof to prevent damage from windstorms and reduce the risk of debris accumulation.  This also helps to discourage pests, such as rodents or insects, from accessing your roof and causing damage.

Check attic ventilation and insulation

Proper attic ventilation and insulation play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your roof. Good ventilation helps to regulate temperature and moisture levels in your attic, preventing issues like mold growth and wood rot. Inspect your attic for signs of poor ventilation, such as condensation or a musty smell, and address any issues promptly.

It’s never a bad idea to inspect your attic after a season ends. Mold in the attic often results from improper attic ventilation and condensation. When moist air gets stuck inside the attic, the humidity creates the perfect environment for mold growth.  In early spring, inspect your attic for dampness or dark stains, which can indicate mold.  Mold spreads quickly have it removed as soon as you spot any signs.  To stop mold from returning, the area needs proper ventilation.

Make roof repairs promptly

If you find anything on your roof that’s missing, broken, worn out, or damaged, get it repaired immediately.  Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so if you aren’t comfortable making repairs, reach out to a roofing company or local contractor.  Fix loose shingles, damage in the soffits, and leaks before more ice and snow melts.  Spending time and money will keep water from getting into your home.  Your real estate home warranty might only cover roof damage for one year after you move into your home.  If you do have roof coverage, you’ll need to act quickly.

Schedule a roof inspection

While you can look at your own roof from the ground or a ladder, a roof inspection is a great option for homeowners.  A professional roofing contractor can see and access the higher points of your roof.  They will know which nooks and crannies to check, and exactly what damage to look out for.  Once the inspection is complete, it doesn’t hurt to get quotes from other roofers before scheduling repairs.  Don’t wait too long before hiring someone, though. If you have a roof leak, you must act quickly to stop water from getting into your house.

Following these spring roofing tips will keep your roof in great shape for years.  Whether you do an inspection or hire a local roofer, keeping up with routine maintenance each spring season is a great way to prevent large repairs and expenses.