Many of us don't think twice about cleaning or even checking our roofs every season, unless, that is, we notice a leak. Winter is finally over and whether or not you had your roof thoroughly inspected, it's time to do so now. Below are 7 things you should do to your roof when the warm weather arrives.
1. Clear Off All Roof Debris
If your roof has a lot of debris on it, chances are, you have mold and mildew growing. If this is the case, it will damage your roof, and if you let it go, you may need to replace your roof.
There are two easy ways to get rid of roof debris. One is to rake the debris off by hand and the other is to use a leaf blower. If this is something you cannot do safely, it is always best to hire a professional, like Graves Brothers to do the job.
2. Wash Off Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are very dangerous for your health and the health of your roof. Check your roof for any signs of mold or mildew during the Spring. Look for discolored streaks on your roof which indicates the signs of growth.
3. Examine Your Roof for Loose Shingles
The snow and ice are hard on our roof's shingles. These harsh conditions can force shingles to curl, separate, and some cases, completely tear off. It may be helpful, if you check your roof once after the winter has passed to see if any of the shingles are damaged. If you find a problem, nail them back or fix them as soon as you can. If you do not take care of the problem, it may cause water damage and eventually mold.
4. Flashing and Chimney
Another thing you should look for is flashing around your chimney. The flashing can easily pull away from the chimney or your roof, which can create small holes, allowing water and bugs to invade. These are small and easy fixes, however, you have to know where the damage exists prior to covering them up. If you have no idea where the damage is or what it looks like, call Graves Brothers today!
5. Damaged Tree Branches
If any of the branches of your trees fall on your roof during the winter, try to remove them ASAP. If the branches are small enough, you can remove them on your own, however, for larger branches, you may need the help of a professional. If the larger branches stay on your roof, they can make holes through the shingles and allow the water to flow into your house.
6. Check the Attic
Check your ceiling and attic for signs of water damage or mold. Mold in your attic is generally due to either an insulation or ventilation issue, if no roof leaking has occurred. If you see any staining or smell mildew, it is wise to call a professional and do not try to take care of it yourself. A professional can easily pinpoint the exact cause of the damage and make repairs quickly, before it gets worse.
7. Check and Clean the Gutters
Rainwater should flow properly through the gutters and the downspout system. If it doesn't, backs up and overflows will occur, leaving you to clean the gutters. There is also a chance that granules or other materials from your roof have spilled from the surface and into your gutters. Look at where the granules are coming from and see if you need to replace any shingles that are becoming thinner due to all those materials falling off. No matter which way you choose to clean your gutters, it will be a demanding job that can be very time consuming.
Cleaning the gutters is something most of us aren't prepared to do, so hiring a professional like Graves Brothers is the best option.
Not only should you clean off your roof when spring arrives, you should also trim nearby trees that have begun to cast a shadow over your roof. Hanging tree branches can cause unwanted accidents. By trimming branches, you will also reduce the amount of leaves you'll need to clean out of your gutters in the fall.