Winter is over and Spring is here and you know what that means. It’s time to start thinking about getting your home ready for the warmer weather. When spring cleaning this time of year, we tend to overlook two important areas, our roofing and gutter systems. This year don’t forget to give them the spring cleaning they deserve. Below are just a few tips to help you keep your roofing and gutter system strong.
Roof Inspections:
Before grabbing your garbage bags and other tools it’s important to assess your roof for damage or wear and tear. When inspecting your roof, it is always recommended that you have a professional roofer come out that is licensed and insured. Sometimes we can overlook missing or damaged shingles. At times we can also fail to see cracks or holes that are in our roofing system or accessories. When using a roofing company, they can make us aware of issues that are important and need immediate attention.
Cleaning your Roofing System:
Now that your inspection is complete you can start the process of cleaning your roof. This can be a dangerous task and is better left to roofing professionals, but nevertheless it can be done by a homeowner. Just use precaution and always your best judgment. When cleaning your roof make sure to remove all debris for attempting any kind of soft wash to remove algae or other build up. Removing debris and algae helps to protect your shingles and fight against the chance of leaks occurring on your roofing system.
Cleaning your Gutter System:
Gutters play an important role in directing water away from your foundation. This time of year we usually find that our gutters can become clogged from all of the fall and winter debris that has been caught. It is important to inspect your system to make sure no damage or leaks are occurring and to remove debris from the gutters and downspouts. Always test your gutter system to make sure water flows freely and there are no leaks when you are done cleaning your system. For steps on how to clean your gutters, click here.
Check Around your Roof:
If you have lots of foliage around your home it is important to check where the branches are laying. Do you have branches or limbs rubbing against your gutter or roofing system? If so you need to cut these back so that if the limbs were to break, they don’t fall on your roof. You also want to cut these back so that during high winds the branches are not rubbing against the system causing breaks or leaks in your systems.
Check your Attic:
Now that we are done with the outside, it’s time to check the inside. If you hired a local roofer to come out and provide a free roof inspection.They likely have checked your attic, if you do call someone to provide your inspection make sure they do also inspect the attic for damage to your decking. If you are inspecting your attic, make sure to be cautious as some attic are poorly lit and accidents can happen. When inspecting the decking look for things like water stains, mold or mildew. If you see any of the following it’s important to address this immediately to prevent further damage.
Make Repairs:
If your roof is newer and was installed by a local roofer, it is likely to have come with a limited warranty. If this is the case, always have that company provide your free inspection and provide the necessary repairs that appear. If you did not use a local roofer and see that there is damage present on your roof. We recommend you reach out to a local roofing company you can trust to provide repairs needed to your roof.
Remember, cleaning and inspecting your roof should happen at least once a year. Living in the Gulf Coast we recommend you inspect and clean your roof at least twice a year and always your systems after major storms or serious weather. If you need a roofing company you can trust, give us a call today.
